Protect Maine's Fishing Heritage Newsletter

Dear Lobstermen,

Protect Maine’s Fishing Heritage wanted to share with you two recent pieces in Maine newspapers written by fellow lobstermen.

Ernie Burgess who is a life-long fisherman from Chebeague wrote a piece that was published in the Portland Press Herald about why we need to find the balance between lobstering and aquaculture.

Maine Voices: Protect traditional fisheries’ access to ocean waters

By Ernie Burgess, Special To The Press Herald

CHEBEAGUE ISLAND — I’ve fished for 66 years and I’ve fished for just about everything up and down Casco Bay. I’ve gone for halibut, hake and cusk, lobstered and gone line fishing, scalloping and clamming. I’ve even gone dragging.

Concerned Citizens Announce Statewide Effort To Protect Maine's Traditional Fishing Heritage

(Portland, Maine) -- A group of citizens who have been working to ensure continued access to Maine’s oceans has formed a new coalition Protect Maine's Fishing Heritage. The group has been active in advocating for lobstermen who are losing acres of fishing grounds to aquaculture leases in some parts of the state. The organization also supports Maine residents who are concerned about losing access to the ocean for recreational usage.

Maine Voices: It’s past time to do broad-based ocean planning

FRIENDSHIP — As with many Mainers, I’ve felt myself basking not only in the transition to summer, but also in a sense that Maine has made great progress in the care of its natural and social resources. As a coastal resident, though, I still see many unresolved and growing issues surrounding the intertidal zone and the expansion of aquaculture within the state. Recent court rulings and petitions for Department of Marine Resources rule-making, as well as legislative efforts, have yet to give us clear direction for the future.

Commentary: Maine lobstermen seeking best solution for both aquaculture applicants and fishermen

BRUNSWICK — I have spent most of my life on the water employed in the commercial fishing industry, and so have generations of family and close friends. Lobstermen are a tight-knit group of men and women who work hard in a dangerous occupation – which, depending on the year, can have unpredictable rewards. We are an industry that is part of Maine’s iconic brand – the Maine lobster. The best in the world. A nearly $500 million-per-year industry.