In a message dated 98-07-26 22:18:42 EDT, you write:
 
<< Why dont the ladies create a pearl boycott. A two results approach;
 saves the mussels and saves the oysters. This would be sort of like the
 save the fur bearing animals boycott. Spray paint ladies wearing pearls
 at social functions.
  >>
 
Just one idea as to why this would not work:  the lost revenues to the states
which allow commercial musseling would severely curtail the research and
preservation of these animals.  Properly managed commercial activities provide
several benefits to mussels overall.  Also, the species which are sensitive or
endangered are generally not suitable for commercial purposes.
 
Doug Shelton
Alabama Malacological Research Center
2370-G Hillcrest Road #236
Mobile, AL 36695