About Watermen's Alliance

Our Background

History of the Alliance

The MLPA Process

Over the next two years, delegates traveled throughout Southern California to attend meetings, and the process became exhausting. Scientific guidelines required that reserves be closely situated, unique, and supportive of diverse resident species. When the fishing group proposed areas that met all of these criteria, the suggestions were often rejected for various reasons, despite aligning with the stated guidelines. One recurring objection cited by regulators was an alleged lack of "persistent kelp" in the proposed areas. Delegates presented photographic evidence and scientific surveys documenting persistent kelp, yet these recommendations were still dismissed, highlighting that the approval process was not always guided by objective scientific standards.

Throughout this period, the group received multiple lectures from the Scientific Advisory Group, which provided valuable insights into marine management. Identified threats to marine resources included warming waters, pollution, and overfishing. Although restricting fishing can offer immediate protection to some resources, it soon became apparent that the MLPA committee intended to focus almost exclusively on fishing restrictions as the primary tool to address degraded environments. While overfishing is a significant concern, broader measures — such as habitat restoration and stricter pollution controls — can offer a more holistic response to marine degradation. By relying almost solely on fishing restrictions, the committee risked overlooking other critical factors that jeopardize marine ecosystems.

Advocacy, Science & Selective Harvest

Through patient engagement, Terry and Eric earned the trust of several scientific advisors who came to agree that skilled spearfishers could selectively harvest fish based on species and size, a level of selectivity not available to most line fishermen whose lures can attract any species. This argument helped secure limited opportunities for spearfishers to pursue non-resident pelagic species such as yellowtail and white seabass in several reserves where fishing was otherwise prohibited, including Swamis (Encinitas), Farnsworth Bank (Catalina), and Naples Reef (Santa Barbara).

Founding Leaders & Incorporation

Early leaders of the Watermen's Alliance included Volker Hoehne, Paul Romanowski, Brandi Easter, Iaon Pohlit, Joe Farlo, Josh Russo, Nick Dumong, and Matthew Bond. During the formative years, delegates met at rotating locations along the coast, and local divers were encouraged to attend pre-meetings to share local knowledge and input. These informal gatherings led directly to the formation of the Watermen's Alliance.

In 2016, the organization prepared articles of incorporation with the goal of establishing a community of consumptive divers united by a shared passion for the ocean. The mission of the Watermen's Alliance includes safeguarding the rights of this community while supporting charitable, scientific, and educational objectives, particularly those tied to responsible stewardship of ocean resources. Under the leadership of the late Josh Russo, who served as president, the Watermen's Alliance earned respect and recognition at the state administrative level.