Comment from frederick (rick) killgore

We the people of the South Atlantic Region, oppose the prohibition of Dolphin sales from our “For Hire Vessels”. We understand that current fishery studies have concluded that there are no conservation issues supporting the closure of Dolphin sales. Leading Dolphin researcher, Don Hammond, recently went on record stating that Dolphin are not experiencing over fishing. With that being clear, there are no reasons for any unnecessary management measures within this fishery. Since the 1940s, our “For Hire Vessels” have generated tourism in our region. These charter boats generate a significant amount of revenue throughout all local businesses. Dolphin fishing has been a key attraction in this historic fishery, both to catch and consume. With low levels of commercial effort here, it is important that our charter boats supply fresh caught “Mahi” to local markets. This income is vital to the survival of charter fishing operations. The “Bag Limit Sales Of Dolphin” on our “For hire Vessels” have helped keep charter prices affordable and attractive to both domestic and international clients. “For Hire Vessels” are now required to possess federal and state licensing to sell fresh Dolphin to licensed wholesale dealers. We agree that proper reporting and accountability is important to sustainability within the fishery. Prohibition of the “Bag Limit Sales Of Dolphin” will lose jobs and it will bring more unwanted imports to our markets. We urge you to remove this action from the Comprehensive ACL Amendment.