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More marine preserves
would protect otters
Re: “Inside the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s incredible surrogacy program for otters” (Nov. 6).
The article was inspiring and encouraging to otter fans like me, given the existential threats that oil spills and pollution pose to California’s wild otter populations.
We have an underutilized tool we should use to protect otters in their natural habitat along the California coast: the designation of marine reserves, also known as Marine Protected Areas. MPAs restrict or ban activities such as oil and gas drilling and commercial fishing that are harmful to otters and other aquatic life. These reserves have a proven record of enhancing marine biodiversity and bolstering kelp forests, which help to shield otters from sharks.
The California Fish and Game Commission should build on the aquarium’s inspiring work by expanding the MPAs in Monterey Bay. Only then will we ensure the survival of our beloved sea creatures in their natural environment.
Rachel Lucine
Oakland
More transparency
needed at shelter
“At beleaguered San Jose’s animal shelter, care for dogs is criticized” (Nov. 7).
It is an atrocity what happened to those bulldogs aboard that truck. They died needlessly in avoidable conditions.
I want to note the good work being done by bringing these cases to light. We need to make a greater effort in many places so that something similar to this never occurs again. On the other hand, I feel for shelter workers with work only increasing, bad press, understaffing and no new facilities. I can understand the difficult position they are placed in as well.
Lastly, let us see more rescue animals in homes. Let’s see more documentation of animals and the processes with which they are being handled to ensure they are in good care.
Rodrigo Borjon
Fremont
Tlaib’s free speech right
also needs protecting
Re: “House advances effort to censure Rashida Tlaib over rhetoric about Israel-Hamas war” (Nov. 7).
I was deeply frustrated by the House’s treatment of Rashida Tlaib. As the only Palestinian American currently in Congress, her voice is more important now than ever amid the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Palestinian civilians.
