8o8apbt;1126784; said:So is there any updates on this?
yeah, if you know any breeders in Asia that want to export to the US, have them contact me at phildlight@gmail.com or philiplight@savethearowana.com
To elaborate: I have been pushing for a program where the person wishing to import/purchase an arowana donates a set amount to CI, then CI supplies the importer with a receipt of the donation. The importer would then supply that receipt along with the permit application to the USFWS.
FWS, wants the breeder to be the one making the donation. So, I need a breeder to preferably start donating to CI, failing that, write a letter to the USFWS stating that they will donate a set amount per fish sold to the US to CI.
One part of this is the conservation plan itself. CI is supposed to get me a detailed document next week that outlines the entire program and it's goals, milestones and current success. That, then will be evaluated, along with the statement from the breeder to make the final decision.
I probably shouldn't do this, but here is some text from a recent conversation between me and the person at FWS that will essentially make the call. I'm formulating the entire package to deliver in a final organized format for FWS to review. All I need are the documents from CI and a breeder willing to contribute/participate. Then it's a waiting game for FWS to make the final ruling.
I really do need help. I've got a few people helping me, but I really need anyone with any ties to a breeder in Asia to contact me.
I don't know that I could describe or put specific criteria on what we
would consider significant enough to support an import authorization.
However, it could not be some minimal one-time contribution, but something
that really contributes to the long-term survival of the species, which
could include support for basic research on the status of the species,
factors affecting its survival, development and implementation of an action
plan to protect habitat and mitigate threats, so that the wild population
increases, etc. The reason I am reluctant to put too many specifics on it
is because there is such a range of potential actions that could qualify.
"Significant" doesn't necessarily translate to a specific dollar amount,
but rather to the effort and outcome involved.