MBNMS SAC: Conservation Working Group Meeting Minutes February 21st, 2003

Jane DeLay (SOS), Jack Wickham (SC), K, Gaffney (TOC), John Fischer, Meredith Lopuch (WWF), Steve Shimek (OP), Peggy McNutt (TNC), Holly Price & Steve Lonhart (MBNMS).

• Steve announced that the USFW Recovery Plan for the Southern Sea Otter, expected out in Jan. 2003, is still delayed.
• There will be a meeting on Plan B (desal) at the Prundale Grange on Feb. 27, 2003.
• Jane DeLay announced that SOS is involved in legislative efforts regarding desal, aquatic invasive species and seawalls.

• Holly reported that the SAC adopted a resolution regarding cruise ship discharges at their last meeting and sanctuary staff is following up to determine how the Sanctuary will address the issue of ships that rely on advanced wastewater treatment systems.
• Holly announced that the Sanctuary hired a new Water Quality Protection Program Director, Chris Coburn as well as a new enforcement officer Bob Urana. SIMoN has also hired two new staff, a web person and a second scientist. Also Lisa Demarignac had her baby.

• Jane Delay gave an update on the Desal Working Group.
• The CWG needs to suggest a replacement for the seawall group as the conservation rep resigned. Jane DeLay agreed to fill this spot.
• Steve Shimek gave an update on the Harbor Working Group and asked for input regarding the issue of designating dredge material as a “beneficial use” material and allowing it to be disposed of outside of existing disposal sites and regulations. The CWG voiced concern with allowing unregulated disposal of materials and suggested that any proposal to use dredge materials for beach replenishment or other beneficial use should be subject to site-specific review and depend on scientific evidence demonstrating that the use is actually beneficial and is not harmful to the marine environment. The CWG also voiced concern about extended permit durations that do not allow for regular public review and input.
• Kaitilin gave an update on the marine reserve, Davidson Seamount and benthic habitat working groups and noted that all were going well.
• John Fischer noted that the City of PG has decided to hold a town hall forum to discuss whether the Great Tidepools should be designated a marine reserve under the MLPA.