Today the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s American Lobster Board passed a motion that I put forward that begins a process to repeal all gauge and vent size changes included in addendum XXVII of the Lobster Fishery Management Plan.
This was a difficult decision, as I am concerned about the long-term sustainability of the lobster stock. However, the industry and their associations were adamant that a gauge increase was the wrong approach. So now we need to start over with a blank slate. I believe that the science is clear – we’re seeing declines in sub-legal lobsters that need to be addressed to protect this valuable resource for future generations. I would urge those who doubt the science to look at the landings since 2016. We are down over 40 million pounds – you can’t explain that hard fact away.
My objectives today were twofold: to ensure that the Maine lobster fishery will not be out of compliance with the Fishery Management Plan on July 1, 2025, when the addendum was set to take effect, and to challenge industry to step up and be part of the solution. I intend to engage industry over the coming months in conversations about other measures which, like those in addendum 27, will make the lobster resource resilient to the changing climate. I believe it is critical they take a clear-eyed look at the science and the economics associated with a declining resource and develop plans that will protect this resource in the long-term. I was thankful to hear representatives from Maine Lobstermen’s Association and the New England Fishermen's Stewardship Association share their commitment to working on this important issue. I am confident that a plan can be developed that will ensure the protection of this vital resource.
Patrick Keliher
Commissioner
Maine Department of Marine Resources