Standing up for Maine’s vital lobster industry and its hardworking men and women, Governor Janet Mills today urged U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross to deny a petition by Pew Charitable Trusts that would prohibit … Continue reading
The MLA urges Department of Marine Resources to simplify proposed gear marking
The Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) published a proposed rule in mid-September to implement a unique and expanded gear marking program for Maine beginning in April 2020. The rule proposes to require all vertical … Continue reading
The MLA continues to challenge NMFS whale proposal
On August 30, 2019, the Maine Lobstermen’s Association sent an extensive letter to NOAA Chief Chris Oliver withdrawing support for the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) 60% risk reduction target and the assignment of responsibility … Continue reading
DMR Rope Study Reveals Options for Weak Rope
The Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team (TRT) met in April 2019 and recommended new regulatory measures for the lobster fishery in the Northeast. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) set a target to reduce … Continue reading
DMR to Hold Meetings with Lobstermen in June, August to Discuss Whale Rules
In the coming weeks, DMR will hold meetings with the seven Lobster Zone Councils to facilitate the development of a plan that meets targets established by the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team (TRT) for … Continue reading
The Fate of Right Whales, and Lobstermen, Subject to Fishermen’s Forum Seminar
The plight of lobstermen was foremost in the minds of many at the Maine Fishermen’s Forum seminar on the status of North American right whales. Lobstermen are concerned about what form new regulations are likely … Continue reading