Hawaiian Ornamental Fishing Ban PASSED

[Myka]

Originally Posted by Slick Fork

A blanket import tax on wild-caught fish is the only really practical method. A species specific tax relies on some customs guy being able to tell the difference between an ocellaris clownfish and a moorish idol, or a wholesaler being ethical enough to fill out the forms honestly.

The trouble with a blanket tax is that it wouldn't protect the more sensitive species. Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources already has plenty of employees that can identify the different species.

Originally Posted by Slick Fork

I think everyone is in agreement that legislation and enforcement of collection practices and species is one thing in a developed place like Hawaii, but completely impractical in most of these impoverished nations where the bulk of our fish come from.

Yes, I agree with you there. MASNA is talking a bit about organizing some sort of governing body.