(CMR) Three people are expected to be charged for poaching after they were caught with a load of conch recently. The Department of Environment said it donated the conch to Meals on Wheels on Tuesday after they were taken from the poachers.
“We had to take a load of confiscated conch to Meals On Wheels yesterday. And three more poachers are going before a judge later this year,” the DoE stated.
Conch season is from November 1 to April 30; however, the legal daily limit for possessing conch during the open season is five per person or 10 per boat each day, whichever is less.
In December, conservation officers seized 40 pounds of conch, which was also donated to Meals on Wheels, and two men were charged.
The DoE sent a strong reminder then that although conch was in season, the marine park boundaries and rules remain in full effect.
“When people poach our fisheries, they severely jeopardize their ability to replenish and continue producing enough food for everyone. Please respect our marine park boundaries, catch limits, and seasons so we can continue to enjoy local seafood for generations to come,” the DoE said in a statement on its social media page.
People are encouraged to say something if they see anyone engaged in suspicious activity. The public can report suspicious activity via phone or WhatsApp to 916-4271 or by calling 911.
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