Some local fishermen say they did what the federal government asked -- but aren't getting paid for their hard work.NBC 15's Lindsay Bramson tells us -- new oyster beds have been planted--- along with some bad feelings.
"we got double power bills, double water bills and we just wanna know who's got our money and why we cant get it."
Dot Bates is just one of many fisherman who plant oyster shells to help make ends meat.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources started the program to help restore the oyster beds following Hurricane Katrina.
These folks spent nearly 3 weeks creating that habitat.
In return, they were supposed to get up to 5-grand a piece.
They've seen plenty of shells, but the government hasn't shelled out a cent.
Bates says, "It's been 38 days today and none of us still has got no money...I mean, and we're hurting down here."
"I'll just wait til we get paid I guess."
Jenny Johnson is diabetic.
She's been counting on this money to pay for her medicine.
She says, "Even with my copay….I can’t afford to buy my medicine for my diabetes."
Chris Denson with the Alabama Department of Conservation says they never told these fisherman when they would get their money.
He says those payments have been delayed-- and claims the fisherman were told in advance.
Something Bates says isn't true.
"We don't want no free handout...we just want what's owed to us."
The Department of Conservation and natural resources tells NBC 15 News -- a check has been sent to the fisherman for their work.
Payment for the shell planting program should begin next week.
