NEW BAIT BARGE OPERATOR SELECTED AT THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES

SAN PEDRO, Calif. — April 10, 2007 — The Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners has awarded a five-year contract to San Pedro Bait Company, Inc. to supply live bait in the Port of Los Angeles.  The new bait barge operator will be located in the Port’s Outer Harbor, near Cabrillo Marina, and will supply live bait to the active sport fishing industry and to recreational fishers.

The contract award comes after the two prior long-term live bait suppliers at the Port of Los Angeles were found to have operating conditions that presented environmental hazards.  The previous barges were removed from service at the Port in November 2006 and February 2007.  A Request for Proposals was issued on January 24, 2007, and San Pedro Bait Company was selected by demonstrating the greatest commitment to environmental stewardship.

“We recognize the importance of having live bait available in the Port of Los Angeles,” said executive director Geraldine Knatz, Ph.D.  “We are confident that the San Pedro Bait Company will provide excellent service to the local fishing community while running an environmentally-friendly operation.”

Celebrating its Centennial in 2007, the Port of Los Angeles is America's premier port. As the leading seaport in the nation in terms of shipping container volume and cargo value, the Port generates 259,000 regional jobs and $8.4 billion in annual wages and tax revenues. A proprietary department of the City of Los Angeles, the Port is self-supporting and does not receive taxpayer dollars. At the Port of Los Angeles, high priority is placed on responsible and sustainable growth initiatives, combined with high security, environmental stewardship and community outreach. For its industry leading environmental initiatives, the Port received two Environmental Protection Agency awards in 2006. The Port of Los Angeles – A Cleaner Port. A Brighter Future.