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5.E. PRESENTATION BY RICHARD GRANT GILMORE, JR., PHD, PRESIDENT, <br />SENIOR SCIENTIST, ESTUARINE, COASTAL AND OCEAN SCIENCE, INC., <br />REGARDING SHARK BAITING AND CHUMMING OFF COUNTY BEACHES <br />Richard Grant Gilmore, Jr., PhD, related that Attorney Alan Polackwich had requested <br />him, subsequent to Board directive at the April 20, 2010 County Commission meeting, to <br />present a professional opinion on whether the practice of shark fishing from County beaches <br />would increase the potential dangers of shark attacks. He displayed several types of shark jaws <br />to report on the various shark species found in the local waters and their feeding habits. Dr. <br />Gilmore thereafter responded to questions from the Board regarding the factors precipitating <br />shark attacks; seasonal migration patterns; and the practices of chumming and baiting. <br />Lengthy deliberations ensued on how to achieve a balance between public safety and the <br />rights of the fisherman who practice good sportsmanship. Chairman O'Bryan sought Attorney <br />Polackwich's opinion regarding the effectiveness of developing an Ordinance regulating shark <br />fishing. <br />Dr. Gilmore provided opinion that in order to ascertain the true dangers of shark fishing, <br />the Board should have a study undertaken, utilizing the current databases of historical <br />information and obtaining information from expert shark fisherman. He advised that the cost of <br />said study would be approximately $50,000. <br />Ocean Rescue Captain John Frazier, who was asked to provide his input, suggested <br />restricting the shark fishing area to 300 feet from the guarded portion of the beach. <br />Commissioner Flescher expressed grave concerns about the shark fishing and felt that a <br />common sense approach should be used, supporting Captain Frazier's view. <br />4 <br />May 11, 2010 <br />