Greenpeace Targets Omega Protein

Greenpeace Targets Omega Protein

REEDVILLE, Va.--Greenpeace USA held a demonstration at the corporateheadquarters of Omega Protein, accusing the company of irreparably harming themenhaden population through its fishing practices, and asking the AtlanticStates Marine Fisheries Commission to place an immediate moratorium on thefishing of the small filter fish. According to the environmental group, OmegaProtein is practicing unsustainable fishing practices, decimating the levels ofmenhaden, causing a domino effect in the populations of other fish.

Omega Protein is one of the largest fishers of Atlantic menhaden, from whichis makes both protein feeds for animals as well as omega-3 essential fatty acid(EFA) products. In a statement, Omega Protein said it has a demonstratedcommitment to clean water and ensuring a large and sustainably fished menhadenpopulation. "Over 250 men and women depend on our Reedville facility fortheir livelihoods and they are owed, at a minimum, science-based management ondecisions directly affecting their lives and work," said Toby Gascon,Omega's director of government affairs.

The commission is expected to rule on the Greenpeace petition at its nextmeeting, set for Aug. 16 to 18.