This seems to be a reoccurring phenomenon adopted by State and Federal Agencies when it comes to managing our natural resources. As you have seen lately every outdoor publication has been full of articles on the recent closures and regulations concerning the Pacific Ocean. These regulations are so drastic and unfair to fisheries they will no doubt wind up in litigation.

The last time Bass Anglers faced such issues was on Lake Shasta when Ranger Eddy decided to fix what he thought was a problem with the Eagle population by placing all sorts of restoration and regulations on Shast'a Bass Tournaments. Through efforts of the BBAC, anglers, merchants, etc., Ranger Eddy was transferred to Mount Hood, Oregon but not before large and many areas of the Lake were closed for the public. His efforts generated a negative public trust towards the Department of Forestry.

With the 9/11 Event we took another hit. Supposedly to protect us from Terrorism, most of the large Lakes/Dams like Shasta and Oroville were immediately closed to access from the water. The result was miles of prime water now Off Limits that may never to opened again.

Recently Booy's showed up in Potters Ravine on Lake Oroville that close boating behind them. This closes about 1/3 of the south bank inside the cove. No explaination was given for the closure. However it was finally discovered it has beem claimed as a Eagle Nesting Site.

Closures for security reasons like 9/11 we probably just have to live with even though they do little or nothing to protect us or the Lakes and Dams. However, arbitrary closures like the one that took place at Potters Ravine are illegal and need to be challenged.

State, Federal and Private organizations are required by law to provide advance information and provide for public meetings and comments concerning public use areas. However, agencies and organizations have learned to avoid any adverse public comment to their Agendas by getting news releases out at the last moment, if at all. These actions usually result in a "No Opposition" outcome. The input and comments usually come from the well rehearsed self serving parties that set up the Agenda and meetings. Results show us there is little or no public representation by the actual user groups.

Several Indian Tribes have gone to the State Secretary of Interior to close large sections of Lake Oroville because they claim it as an Ancient Burial Site. These sections include all of the Foreman Creek area and McKabes Cove. Immediate closure was granted to "off road vehicles" and limited foot access. Boat traffic in these areas has not been afected--- So Far.

Everybody has an Agenda these days so situations will continue to arise. There are only two choices in these scenarios. You Have To Learn How To Become Part Of The Process and Protect Your Own Agenda or Remain Detached and Become Collerial Damage.