Senator Bert Stedman recently introduced a bill (SB 60), which would allow the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to pay a bounty to harvest sea otters. He believes the sea otter population is growing out of control, and threatens the state's shellfish industry.
Stedman's proposed bill is in conflict with the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which protects sea otters from being killed. Some of Alaska's sea otters are endangered, and bounty hunters could take the wrong otters by mistake.
Sea otters attract tourists with their cute appearance and playful activity. Wildlife-viewing tourism revenue more than makes up for the money otters cost the commercial fishing industry. They also play a vital role in Alaska's ecosystem by controlling sea urchins and other species that would otherwise take over the coastline. Please sign the petition to urge Alaskan legislators to stop the sea otter bounty!
To: Alaskan Legislators
As you know, senator Bert Stedman recently introduced a bill (SB 60) which would allow the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to pay a bounty to harvest sea otters. He believes the sea otter population is growing out of control, and threatens the state's shellfish industry.
We believe that Stedman's proposed bill is in conflict with the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which protects sea otters from being killed. Some of Alaska's sea otters are endangered, and bounty hunters could take the wrong otters by mistake.
Sea otters attract tourists with their cute appearance and playful activity. Wildlife-viewing tourism revenue more than makes up for the money otters cost the commercial fishing industry. They also play a vital role in Alaska's ecosystem by controlling sea urchins and other species that would otherwise take over the coastline.
For all the reasons above, we respectfully urge you to say "no" to SB 60. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider our petition.
