Comment from Billie Adkins

As an avid flats fisherman and Marina manager in the keys for over 20 years I understand the need for protection of our resources. I also understand that the damage to the sanctuary areas is not usually caused by local recreational fishermen and local pleasureboaters. The things that the sanctuary needs to be protected from is overuse by tourist busineses and activities along with proper management of comercial fishing and fishing regulations. If any changes are made in the way we use the backcountry areas it should be to keep it away from any comercial activity and to manage the fishing regulations properly. Many areas have shown reduced numbers of fish due to the restrictions on golath grouper. These fish move into an area and eat everything around them. I sugest a slot limit to help perpetuate the species while thinning them out in many of the areas that used to hold fish. If restrictions prohibited me to boat and fish all of the backcountry areas I have used for years I would see it as the end of my time here. put the house up for sale and move to another area that is less restricted. r, Bill Adkins concerned boater and fisherman