From time to time it can be very helpful to write a letter of support
to the Minister of Conservation or the Minister of Fisheries, urging
them to protect marine mammals.
Right now, the Minister of Fisheries (Pete Hodgson) and Minister
of Conservation (Sandra Lee) are considering how to manage the critically
endangered Hectors dolphin population off the west coast of
the North Island.
Please write a letter, urging them to protect Hector's dolphins
between Maunganui Bluff (just north of Dargaville) and New Plymouth,
by banning the use of gillnets and trawling to 4 nautical miles
(about 8 km) offshore. Don't forget to mention that you want the
harbours (Kaipara, Manukau, Raglan, Kawhia, Aotea and Port Waikato)
to be included in the protected area.
For more information, on the North Island Hector's dolphin click
here. For information on current marine mammal conservation
issues click here.
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