Ocean Planning and Zoning

Once upon a time, not long ago, the oceans were still a frontier for exploration.  Today, we see many signs of unchecked exploitation.  Lest you react too quickly against regulating access, think back to the implementation of game laws.  Most game species and other species dependent on them for survival (both up and down the chain) were on the verge of disappearing from our country prior to the implementation of hunting and fishing regulations.  Today, many have rebounded beyond our wildest expectations.  I have difficulty with restricting rights, but this one makes sense from the perspective of sustainability.  The ocean is perhaps the most important source of food protein on the planet.

Obama launches policy to protect oceans

I must admit though, I am amused by the phrase...."marine spatial planning."

Below is a link to the Executive Order:

Executive Order--Stewardship of the Ocean, Our Coasts, and the Great Lakes

Tomato Industry Bust Now Lets Tank the Jalapeno Growers

Losses to the tomato industry mount and we still don't know the cause of the salmonella outbreak. Why? Because it's extremely difficult to track down is why.

People panic. The media hypes the danger. We all lose.

It will be a long time before the tomato industry recovers the $100 million plus that it has lost during this debacle. Now the jalapeno growers are facing a similar situation.

The Democrats are using the issue to push for more controls. "Let's have farm of origin labelling," the say. They don't stop to think of the cost. Add the cost of implementation to the $100 million already lost and the tomato industry may never recover. So, let's throw government money at the problem. Either way, the consumer will pay for it. We will face much higher prices for tomatoes for some time now because of shortages.

Dear consumer: WASH YOUR FOOD WHEN PREPARING IT! It won't cure all ills but it will help. Be thankful for such an abundant supply and assortment.