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Two New Groups Join the Partnership for Sustainable Oceans

Berkley Conservation Institute and International Game Fish Association Join Efforts to Keep America Fishing

Sacramento, CA, September 23, 2008 – The Partnership for Sustainable Oceans (PSO) today announced two new coalition members: the Berkley Conservation Institute (BCI) and the International Game Fish Association (IGFA).

The PSO – committed to protecting the health of California’s ocean environment without unnecessary closures of California coastal waters to recreational fishing – welcomes these two organizations to the partnership and will be working closely with them to maintain access to California’s marine waters and prevent permanent closures to recreational fishing.

The BCI was created to protect and restore fishable waters and the fish populations that will ensure future generations of fishing. “The PSO’s goals of keeping America fishing and maintaining access to recreational fishing along California’s amazing coastline are certainly consistent with those of our organization,” said BCI Conservation Director Jim Martin.

IGFA, a nonprofit group, is committed to the conservation of game fish through science, education and responsible, ethical fishing practices. “The issues that anglers are currently facing in California are important and relevant to all our members around the world,” said IGFA President Rob Kramer. “We look forward to working with the PSO to ensure that sound science and proper management processes are used to protect our resources.”

A decision by the California Fish and Game Commission to implement marine protected areas along California’s coasts without careful consideration and due process based on sound science could have disastrous consequences for regional economies, recreational fishermen and potentially the environment. The PSO is working to prevent this from happening, while ensuring a vibrant and healthy marine ecosystem.

For frequent updates about the Partnership's advocacy on behalf of recreational fishermen within the MLPA process please visit www.keepamericafishing.org.

Contacts
Dan Kramer or Susan Bitar, coalition spokespersons, 916-941-6102.

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The Partnership for Sustainable Oceans (PSO) includes the American Sportfishing Association, Berkley Conservation Institute, Coastside Fishing Club, Contributing Members of the Avalon Tuna Club, International Game Fish Association, Kayak Fishing Association of California, National Marine Manufacturers Association, Nor-Cal Kayak Anglers, Shimano Sport Fisheries Initiative, Southern California Marine Association, the Sportfishing Association of California, United Anglers of Southern California and the Watermen’s Alliance .