The Terrapin Institute and Research Consortium, Inc.

P. O. Box 51

Edgewater, Maryland 21037

March 14, 2006

The Honorable Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr.

Governor of Maryland

State Circle

Annapolis, Maryland 21401

Dear Governor Ehrlich:

Populations of wild diamondback terrapins have declined as commercial harvests of the species have surged five-fold in two years. The potential market is infinite; the abundance of our State Reptile is not. The harvest of our venerable State icon can be stopped immediately by executive order. Unlike previous fisheries conservation measures, this time the watermen will not bear the economic burden.

Maryland’s commercial fishing industry will not be saved on the back of a turtle. We must allow for private investment and modernization. In order to mitigate the financial impact, the Terrapin Institute will compensate any waterman and seafood buyer who may be affected by the closure in the terrapin fishery. All funds used to compensate harvesters and dealers will be provided by private donors. Our business plan and fiscal credentials will be made available for your appraisal. The fishery management agency will be able to focus on the more profitable commercial fisheries. The terrapin will be saved from certain decline; the watermen’s heritage will be preserved; and your Administration will restore innovation to the remnant commercial fishing industry.

As a lifelong Republican, I do not wish to see this revered species vanish on your watch. The terrapin is metaphor for America’s Republican ethic of persistence and resolve. Please allow the Terrapin Institute to conserve the diamondback terrapin with private investment and modern conservation. What good is saving the Bay if nothing lives in it? Please close the terrapin fishery.

Thank you for your consideration.

Respectfully,

Marguerite Whilden

cc: Senator Richard Colburn

410 370 9171 mwhilden@comcast.net