Conservationists in Delaware are calling for stricter enforcement of a ban on horseshoe crab harvesting during the spawning season after reports of violations at Kitts Hummock in Kent County last year. Residents in the area have declared their properties a sanctuary for the crabs, but some harvesters have disregarded these rules, leading to confrontations with residents and confusion among visitors.
The Ecological Research & Development Group (ERDG) is leading the sanctuary efforts and has raised concerns about potential violations during the upcoming spawning season. They are urging the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) to clarify and enforce the rules to prevent further incidents.
DNREC has confirmed that some harvesters exceeded their permitted harvesting range last year and are taking steps to address community concerns. They have worked with the Attorney General’s office to clarify their authority over horseshoe crab harvesting in Kitts Hummock and plan to send letters to harvesters and residents.
The horseshoe crab population in Delaware Bay has rebounded due to conservation efforts, but concerns remain about the impact of harvesting on species such as the red knot shorebird. Advocates are pushing for a statewide ban on horseshoe crab harvesting to protect these species and maintain the ecological balance of the bay.
State lawmakers are being urged to take action to protect the horseshoe crab population and the species that depend on them. Failure to address these threats could have devastating consequences for the delicate ecosystem of Delaware Bay.
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