Long line fishing occurs when lines as long as 100 miles are outfitted with baited hooks that attract any number of ocean species. At one time, legislation demanded the design of gill nets be revised to avoid killing seals, dolphins and sea turtles. However, it is virtually impossible to control which species bite baited hooks suspended from a long line. Many countries engage in this practice. Stopping long line fishing requires gaining the attention of elected officials and heightening public awareness.
Government
Step 1
Determine the U.S. congressional district in which you live. This information is available through government websites such as Contacting the Congress. Acquire the name of your congressman and all relevant contact information.
Step 2
Draft a concise letter that includes a brief introduction, your concerns and a request for a response. Include statements regarding the ineffectiveness of current legislation, such as the Marine Protection Act. Limit the letter to three paragraphs, each double spaced. The more concise you present your concerns, the better the chances of receiving a response. Include a self-addressed envelope with postage fees paid.
Step 3
Forward drafts of the letter to others who share your concern for the environmental effect of long line fishing. Follow up on all contacts to ensure the letters are forwarded to your congressman.
Step 4
Contact the office of the congress member and ascertain whether your letter has been received and reviewed by the congress member. Politicians have schedule constraints, so remain persistent. Be cordial during any communications, but insist on a written response to your concerns.
Step 5
Evaluate the degree of concern displayed by your congressman. In some cases, it might be necessary to contact a higher elected official regarding a lack of response from a congressman. A basic understanding of the nature of politics and politicians is valuable.
Media
Step 1
Develop a long-range media campaign to heighten public awareness. The most effective campaign would include prime-time TV spots along with billboard and newspaper ads.
Step 2
Enlist the services of a popular media group that specialize in this type of campaign. Prominent media groups attract business based upon a reputation for getting results. Generate a list of possibilities through direct telephone contact.
Step 3
Obtain financing for the media campaign through private investors or government grant programs. An effective public-awareness campaign run by a prominent media group has the best chance of gaining private investor interest. Most government grants require certain qualifications that you, or one of your affiliates may possess.
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