So, as if it isn't bad enough that we have to accept larger minimum fish sizes, reduced possession limits and shorter seasons when based on inaccurate data,
we now stand to lose the very fishing grounds themselves. The lumps in question are the lump inside of the Axel Carlson Reef known as borrow area B and the Manasquan Ridge known as borrow area F2. They are both identified by the government as "prime fishing areas"
This project will ultimately destroy these lumps. In the comment section of the Environmental Assessment dated May 2014, NMFS had recommended that both these areas be removed as a source of sand. The Army Corp's response is that they will only take 2/3s of Borrow area B and haven't officially determined if they'll take sand from Manasqun Ridge but if they do it will only be a small portion.
The JCAA, RFA and ALS are fighting this and have been in touch with our legislative representatives.
The Environmental Assssment can be found at on The Philadelphia Corp's website at
http://www.nap.usace.army.mil/Portal...ignedFONSI.pdf.
