Oysters in the news again

Back on November 28th, I had posted about some stunningly bad science being practiced in Washington State's oyster farms. Now, an Oyster farm in California is victim to more bad science. From Bridget Johnson writing at PJ Media:

Feinstein Slams Salazar for Using �False Science� to Kill Historic Oyster Farm
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) lashed out at Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and accused him of using junk science to kill the last operating oyster cannery in her home state.

The Drakes Bay Oyster Company had been in a long fight with the Interior Department, who said the fourth-generation family business was harming harbor seal pups and native plants, and wanted to return the coastal region in Marin County to its natural state.

In 1972, the National Park Service purchased the land that housed the oyster operation and the owner reserved a 40-year right to continue its activities through November 30, 2012.

�I�ve taken this matter very seriously. We�ve undertaken a robust public process to review the matter from all sides, and I have personally visited the park to meet with the company and members of the community,� said Salazar in a statement yesterday. �After careful consideration of the applicable law and policy, I have directed the National Park Service to allow the permit for the Drakes Bay Oyster Company to expire at the end of its current term and to return the Drakes Estero to the state of wilderness that Congress designated for it in 1976. I believe it is the right decision for Point Reyes National Seashore and for future generations who will enjoy this treasured landscape.�

The popular business enjoyed strong community support and over the years millions of dollars in studies went into the protracted fight with the government.

�As stewards of the land, our practices are driven by a deep respect for the earth and the waters of the Estero ecosystem. The farms provide jobs, housing, and income to many locals, and are a significant part of the history and diversity of this thriving agricultural community,� the company said on its website.

Now, just before the holidays, 30 people are out of work.

The Drakes Bay Oyster Company website is here. A lot more information can be found here: Oysterzone 20 minute video at Hot Air