Shark Conservation Act of 2008 to Track Illegal Shark Finning

April 12, 2008 - Great progress has been made in protecting sharks of the world's oceans. Prompted by a 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decision to close loopholes in existing legislation protecting sharks, the U.S. Congress has drawn up the Shark Conservation Act of 2008. Specifically dealing with shark finning, which has taken a toll on many species, the Shark Conservation Act of 2008 would require the sharks to be landed with their fins.

What this means is shark data collection and monitoring bodies will be better able to gauge and assess the quota of finned sharks that is allowed. It doesn't outright prohibit sharks from being finned, but it does prevent the practice of catching sharks just for their fins and throwing their carcasses overboard. The Act also requires all maritime vessels - not just fishing vessels - to abide by the practices.

Best of all, the Shark Conservation Act of 2008 will allow the U.S. to hit countries in violation of the Act where it hurts the most - their pockets. Any country that doesn't have shark finning restrictions as strict or stricter than that of the Shark Conservation Act, will be subject to disciplinary action, including embargo's on imported shark products from violating nations.

The Act will be further considered by the Natural Resources Committee this month, and is likely to get passed on for further approval. Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo of Guam, who is also the Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Fisheries, was responsible for penning this most precious piece of legislation, which one hopes will serve as an example for other nations.

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