Across the Delaware Bay public debate is heating up over plans to expand oyster farming in the inland bays. Waterfront homeowners predictably say they dont want to spoil their view. A not in my back yard response like this newspaper editorial is to be expected but fails to consider the overall public good. DNREC announced its readiness for expansion of shellfisheries a few years ago and public comment is only now catching up to the conversation. Conflict among stakeholders was expected as part of the vetting process. Callahans argument is technically correct but, same similar arguments made in the past about NJ DEPs conflict of interests, will not prevail. Bottom line is that, just like in NJ, the state controls usage of waterways and is not particularly sympathetic to the views of a relatively small number of waterfront property owners. Callahans attempt to align support other stakeholder groups is flawed. All scientific indications are that expansion of oyster farming is good for recreational fishing and the ecosystem overall (as well as the local economy). Boaters do not report significant objections to well regulated aquaculture because they understand the concept of balance.DE should and will re-enter the oyster farming business.
Posted on: Thu, 20 Nov 2014 10:28:44 +0000
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