Part 3 (please read Parts 1, 2 first)
My personal suggestion would be that such communications involve a "thank
you" to Mr. Holland for the CBBT's turning away from its original decision to
eliminate birding privileges on the northern three islands altogether;
encouragement to get to know birders and our activities first-hand;
encouragement to
work with the Birding/Security Committee to find the best possible way to
accommodate the interests of both the birding public and the Security Division.
I
would not suggest that people bombard Mr. Holland with negative comments or
even
with comments on why the new security measures should be eliminated. Such a
tactic implies that CBBT people have been misguided or have overreacted. All
of the components of the new protocols will be discussed at coming meetings,
and, naturally, all representatives from birding and conservation groups will
lobby as effectively as they can for a relaxation of the restrictions (as well
as the fees associated with administering the new protocols).
Finally: at the state level, there may be macchinations to merge the CBBT
Board with the groups that administer the other bridge-tunnel complexes in the
state. If this occurs, we will probably have a completely different situation
with regard to access privileges. Those of you who have tried to gain access
to the islands of the Monitor-Merrimack BT or the Hampton Roads BT will know
what I mean. For now, we are able to bird relatively freely at the CBBT,
though
with an increase in cost and a need to plan in advance. Lamentable as that
may be, we are still allowed access, which may not be the case in the near
future. The wise would do well to enjoy the privilege, warts and all, while it
still exists.
Ned Brinkley
Cape Charles, VA
