Lawmakers and scientists in Massachusetts are working to bolster the state s growing "blue economy." Several pieces of legislation aim to create a "blue workforce pipeline" in marine biotechnology, commercial fishing and more. Wally Fulweiler, professor of earth, environment and biology at Boston University, said a healthy ocean makes for healthier coastal communities and "blue jobs," such as oyster reef restoration will stick around as long as coastal ecosystems are cared for. "Humans are part of the system, and I think we have to figure out a way that we can all kind of work within that system," Fulweiler urged. " .
A new analysis by Oceana found crews in the California set gillnet fishery have severely underreported the number of seals and sea lions caught and killed or injured over the past 20 years. Researchers estimate fishing crews are reporting marine mammal bycatch just 6% of the time. Caitlynn Birch, Pacific marine scientist for Oceana, said it proves the need for government observers onboard the boats. .
With news of more large-scale fish dumps in coastal Louisiana waters in recent weeks, advocates are calling for more regulations on the menhaden industry. Three large commercial fishing nets were dumped in waters off Cameron Parish in separate incidents between Sept. 11 and 14, resulting in an estimated 850,000 dead menhaden, also known as pogies, along with other species of bycatch. .
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