The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), the government agency responsible for fisheries management, is considering allowing hundreds of miles of fishing lines and baited hooks to be set inside the Pacific Leatherback Conservation Area off California and Oregon under what is known as an "Exempted Fishing Permit." The permit would be for the catch of swordfish, but would also allow for the catch of up to five endangered leatherback sea turtles, a short-finned pilot whale and other marine life as well.

Please let NMFS know that you oppose permitting pelagic longline fishing in the waters off California and Oregon.

Hurry - comments will only be accepted until Tuesday, May 27, 2008.