THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER of the
LOBSTERMEN’SMAAINEI ASSOCIATIONNE
BBetteretter IInformed,nformed, BBetteretter DDecisionsecisions November 2011 Vol 19, No 11 Bait prices Th omas Reagan is 2011 Maine still rising Lobster Chef of the Year
By Melissa Waterman he Maine Lobster Chef of the Year 2011 was crowned on October 21 at the Harvest on the Harbor food and wine festival in Portland. Reagan was award- mong a lobsterman’s daily T ed $1,000 in prize money and a display plaque identifying him as the Maine Lobster expenses, bait and fuel A Chef of the Year. Presented by the Maine Lobster Promotion Council, the annual fi gure large. Without fuel, you Maine Lobster Chef of the Year cook-off competition helps celebrate and show- go no where. Without bait, you case Maine’s peak lob- catch nothing. So any increase ster harvest season. in the cost of either item is An audience of two looked at with great dismay by hundred lobster enthu- Maine lobstermen. This sea- siasts, journalists and son there were many grumbles industry representatives among lobstermen about the voted Thomas Reagan cost of herring. this year’s Maine Lob- A quick review of landings ster Chef of the Year fi gures kept by the state De- Photo by Melissa Waterman. after tasting Reagan’s partment of Marine Resources Slow Poached Lobster reveals that the price paid for herring landed in the state has, in fact, risen steadily Tail Nipponese, a lob- in recent years (see sidebar). While the increased price per pound may not seem ster tail poached in lem- like much, the change has affected the price of lobster bait, according to Wyatt on butter sauce served Anderson, bait division manager for the O’Hara Corporation in Rockland. atop a black and white
Continued on page 11 Continued on page 11 Photo courtesy of Maine Lobster Promotion Council. Penobscot Bay Lobster Cooperatives Baren Yurchick phot Maine coops working for Maine lobstermen.
o Proud sponsors of the MLA newsletter. Drop in price due to weak economy
By Melissa Waterman ference between this year’s prices and those of 2010. PRST STD
Permit No. 65 Permit No. His company paid between 25 and 30 cents more for obster prices thus far this fall have been slightly
U.S. Postage Paid Postage U.S. lobsters at the end of September in 2010 than this year; less than those of 2010, according to major lobster L the price was down 40 cents for the month of October. dealers around the state. The reason for the price drop? Brunswick, ME 04011 One factor he thinks has infl uenced that price is the “The economy is just plain bad,” said Peter McAleney, market for lobster tails which started to slip in early July president of the Maine Import Export Lobster Deal- and never recovered. ers’ Association and owner of New Meadows Lobster McAleney credits the dip in price to a multitude of in Portland. “People are just not buying lobsters. We’re things. “The tourists are gone as of the middle of Oc- lucky we have the [Canadian] processors.” tober,” he said. “If everyone sells to processors then of According to Dane course the price goes down.” Somers, executive director of But the wavering economy the Maine Lobster Promotion You have to remember that defi nitely has put a crimp in Council, demand in the fall is record catches don’t go with lobster sales for McAleney’s the leading infl uence on lob- own company. “I usually ster price. “Pricing in the fall, record prices. sell to the New York market as with other seasons, depends through to the fi rst of No- generally on demand while vember. This year they called at the end of September there are other factors, such as fl uctuations in supply and said they didn’t want any more lobster,” he said. from week to week, quality of lobster in terms of ship- At Garbo Lobster, manager Pete Daley thinks price ability, or meat yield, that affect it,” he said via e-mail. and supply are in balance this fall. “The product is mov- One lobster buyer, who did not wish to be named, ing,” he said. “People are doing O.K., not great but not searched his company’s records to determine the dif-
Continued on page 17 INSIDE MLA Highlights Creative Lobstermen Are we farming lobsters? Maine Lobstermen’s Association Maine Lobstermen’s #1 Ave. 21 Western ME Kennebunk, 04043 page 8 page 9 page 20 2 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011
Maine Lobstermen’s Steaming Ahead Association
Advocating for a presented MLA’s work documenting how lobstermen fi sh some of the challenges that are a part of fi shing. Do you think sustainable Itheir gear in the Gulf of Maine at the recent Northeast anyone would be proposing ropeless fi shing if they had even a lobster resource Regional Collaborative Research Conference. The purpose of basic understanding of lobstering? Geez, I hope not. and the the conference is to highlight the successes of collaborative That is why the MLA took on the tedious job of meeting fi shermen and research in the northeast and defi ne a strategic plan for fur- with lobstermen along the coast of Maine to document how ccommunities that ther research moving forward. we actually fi sh lobster gear. Putting this information down depend on it SinceS 1954 The MLA has a long history of connecting lobstermen on paper illustrates both the limitations and opportunities for and scientists to improve our understanding of the fi shery. modifying gear in ways that keep you safe at sea, able to fi sh With participation from both our board and members, the and make a living, while making the ocean safer for whales. Board of Directors MLA initiated the annual v-notch survey, hosted a long list of The MLA has been, and continues to be, a leader in collab- ••• scientists aboard our boats over the years, including Bob Ste- orative research. The organization is a leader because Maine President: David Cousens neck and Jim Acheson, gave a platform for sea samplers since lobstermen are leaders. Despite the anger and frustration that So. Th omaston, 207.594.7518 the program’s inception, provided a vessel for the remote op- goes with being micromanaged by federal and state regulators, 1st VP: Jim Dow erated vessel survey to fi lm groundlines – the list goes on! I fi nd that Maine lobstermen continue to be hugely creative in Bass Harbor, 207.288.9846 Our cooperation stems from the strong stewardship ethic considering ways to solve these diffi cult issues. 2nd VP: Brian McLain that predominates most lobstermen’s thinking. With a fi shery I am very proud of the report describing lobster gear in New Harbor, 207.677.3377 that takes place in one’s own backyard, lobstermen have long the Gulf of Maine. I think for the fi rst time, we have a docu- : Arnold Gamage, Jr. Sec/Treasurer been motivated to gain a deeper understanding of lobsters ment that does a good job explaining both through words So. Bristol, 207.644.8110 in order to ensure that the populations remain healthy in the and illustrations how Maine lobstermen fi sh. And I am par- future. ticularly proud of all of the lobstermen who helped to make Bob Baines, Spruce Head, 596.0177 For this conference, I highlighted MLA’s research conduct- this possible. Shane Carter, Bar Harbor, 288.0236 ed in partnership with the Consortium for Wildlife Bycatch Dealing with state, federal and regional management and Dwight Carver, Beals, 497.2895 Reduction based at the New England Aquarium. MLA’s proj- managers is diffi cult. The issues are extremely challenging, Gerry Cushman, Port Clyde, 372.6429 ect to document how lobstermen fi sh their gear stems from a solutions are tough to fi nd, and emotions tend to run high. Jim Henderson, Camp Ellis, 282.0913 question that I often hear from frustrated lobstermen as they There are days when the regulatory system just seems to Robert Ingalls, Bucks Harbor, 255.3418 try to wrap their heads around proposals for new whale rules: knock the wind out of your sails. Yet when the MLA looks Mark Jones, Boothbay, 633.6054 “Don’t they don’t they know anything about lobstering?” And to Maine lobstermen to help fi nd solutions, I am continually Jason Joyce, Swan’s Island, 526.4109 the answer is no. struck by the true commitment that so many have to help Jack Merrill, Islesford, 244-4187 As fi shermen, you know deep down exactly what is needed make things better. Tad Miller, Matinicus, 372.6941 to lobster safely and profi tably. This knowledge you often Thanks to all of you who made this publication possible. I Mike Myrick, Cushing, 354.6077 take for granted until you start to hear managers talking about believe it will help MLA to better represent you over the next Brad Parady, Kittery, 337.3141 fi ddling around with various parts of it. And then you re- few years of whale meetings. And maybe it will inspire more Kristan Porter, Cutler, 259.3306 alize: they don’t get it. This certainly becomes clear when of you to get involved and help fi nd solutions that work for Lawrence R. Pye, Small Point, 389.9131 researchers or resource managers pop out with some really at- our industry and for the whales. Willis Spear, Yarmouth, 846.9279 tention-getting ideas related to whale entanglements – things Jay Smith, Nobleboro, 563.5208 like ropeless fi shing, timed or tension release devises and of As always, stay safe on the water. Craig Stewart, Long Island, 846.3158 course, sinking groundlines. I know that most of you must be Elliott Th omas, Yarmouth, 846.6201 thinking to yourselves, “Ropeless fi shing,? Seriously?” Donald Young, Cushing, 354.6404 Remember, the folks who suggest these sorts of ideas do Jack Young, Vinalhaven, 863.4905 not understand how you fi sh or why you fi sh the way you do. Saving whales is diffi cult enough considering the problems Staff of pollution, inbreeding and a host ••• Executive Director of other factors that scientists barely The Maine Lobstermen’s Association advocates Patrice McCarron understand. But when proposals start for a sustainable lobster resource and the 207.967.4555 fishermen and communities that depend on it. [email protected] including ideas that threaten your live- lihood or put your safety at risk, it Tradition * Leadership * Fairness * Collaboration Industry Communications makes sense that lobstermen just get Coordinator Melissa Waterman mad. MLA Membership Application 207.691.2330 The need to bridge the knowledge [email protected] gap among scientists, managers and HARVESTER MEMBERS BUSINESS MEMBERS the fi shing industry on some of the ! ! ! Whale Projects Coordinator Highliner*: $175 Regular: $100 Business Highliner: $250 (bold in newsletter directory) more subtle details of lobster fi shing ! Family**: $150 ! Over 65/Under 18: $50 ! Business: $125 Heather Tetreault *receive an MLA hat 207.967.4555 is extremely important. Scientists and **provide names of family members to be included in membership Business Name: ______ Contact: ______ [email protected] managers do need to know what kind FRIEND OF THE MLA of gear you fi sh, how you rig it and ! Friend: $50 Address: ______ Education Coordinator Annie Tselikis Name: ______ Town: ______ State: ______ Zip: ______ [email protected] Address: ______ Phone: ______ 800 #: ______ Town: ______ Education Assistant Email: ______ April Gilmore State: ______ Zip: ______ [email protected] Many thanks to all of Website: ______ you who contributed Phone: ______ Cell: ______ DISCOUNTS — Yes! Our Business will offer discounts for goods or services to MLA members. (please describe): Communications Assistant Email: ______ Sarah Paquette to the relief fund for ______ [email protected] South Thomaston lob- License #: ______Zone/District: ______ Th e MLA newsletter is published monthly. It is sterman David Maho- ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTION SPECIAL OFFERS provided for free to all Maine lobstermen thanks nen’s children. Maho- ! Contribution $______ ! $18.75…...Commercial Fisheries News to the support of newsletter sponsors. Th is month’s Please consider an additional contribution (include a separate check payable to CFN) to support MLA’s important work sponsor is the Penobscot Bay Lobster Cooperatives. nen was lost at sea last winter while lobstering MLA LEGAL DEFENSE MLA’s Legal Defense Fund is dedicated to paying legal expenses associated with Hogan & Hartson’s pro bono offshore. The fund will representation of MLA on whales and other issues Maine Lobstermen’s Association provide fi nancial sup- ! Legal Fund Donation $______ (include a separate check payable to MLA Legal Defense Fund) 21 Western Ave., #1 Kennebunk, ME 04043 port for his two young [email protected] children. Thank you for Pay by: Check ______ Visa ______ MasterCard ______ Total Amount: $______ your generosity! Card #: ______ ______ ______ ______ Expiration Date:______ Card Validation Number (last 3 digits on signature strip on back of card): ______ www.mainelobstermen.org Signature: ______ Our newsletter is now online! November 2011 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION 3
Safety changes coming for federal waters
By Kevin Plowman, U.S. Coast Guard • complete a training program and possess a valid certifi cate issued under the program. The training program will include seamanship, stability, collision he Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 was signed into law on October 14, prevention, navigation, fi re fi ghting and prevention, damage control, per- 2010. The Act requires the Coast Guard to develop and implement new safety T sonal survival, emergency medical care, emergency drills, and weather. Credit regulations for commercial fi shing industry vessels. What does this mean to you? If can be given for recent experience in fi shing vessel operations. An individual you fi sh inside the three nautical mile line, not much. If you fi sh beyond the three will be required to complete a refresher course every fi ve years. nautical mile line, there are some signifi cant changes coming your way. The commercial fi shing vessel safety regulations will be the same whether your All commercial fi shing vessels operating beyond the three nautical mile line will vessel is state registered or federally documented. The “line” where additional safety be required to complete a dockside examination every two years and possess a valid requirements become applicable will no longer be the boundary line. The boundary Certifi cate of Compliance. line will be replaced with the three nautical mile line. Commercial fi shing vessels 50 feet or more in This line is clearly displayed on most nautical charts. length built after July 1, 2012 operating beyond the Most of the changes affect commercial fi shing three nautical mile line will be required to meet clas- vessels operating beyond the three nautical mile line. sifi cation society survey and classifi cation require- So what are the new requirements for commercial ments. fi shing vessels? Commercial fi shing vessels 79 feet or more in The carriage requirements for primary lifesaving length built after July 1, 2012 will be required to equipment will change. After January 1, 2015, life fl oats and buoyant apparatus will meet Load Line requirements. no longer be accepted for commercial fi shing vessels operating beyond three nauti- The Act also establishes a Fishing Safety Training Grants Program and a Fishing cal miles. When these vessels are required to carry primary lifesaving equipment, Safety Research Grants Program. either an infl atable buoyant apparatus or a life raft will be required to be carried, When do these new requirements come into effect? Some requirements set forth depending on how far offshore they operate. With the limited number of autho- in the Act have established dates by which they are required to be met, such as pri- rized life raft servicing facilities here in Maine and New Hampshire, scheduling and mary lifesaving equipment carriage, Load Line, and construction standards require- servicing of your life raft/infl atable buoyant apparatus will need to be closely coor- ments. Other provisions will not take effect until regulations are developed to imple- dinated with the servicing facilities. ment the requirements. The Coast Guard is working to complete this rulemaking, All commercial fi shing vessels operating beyond the three nautical mile line will but the process takes time and includes public notice, time to receive comments, and be required to: time to implement the new regulations. The Final Rule will state when specifi c re- • carry a marine radio quirements will take effect and could provide for phase-in periods for fi shing vessel • carry suffi cient medical supplies for the size of the vessel and the area of owners/operators to bring their vessels into compliance with the new regulations. operation In conclusion; new regulations are coming. Stay informed and work with your • carry adequate ground tackle (anchor). industry groups to help steer the course of these changes. And as always call your • the operator of a commercial fi shing vessel operating beyond the three nau- commercial fi shing vessel safety examiner Kevin Plowman at 207-780-3256 or 207- tical mile line will be required to: 899-6278 or email at [email protected] with any questions or to schedule • maintain a record of emergency equipment maintenance and a log book of your free dockside examination. the required drills and safety instructions 4 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011 Guest Column David Cousens, South Th omaston
David Cousens is a lobsterman from South Thomaston. The following is his personal opinion, not roughly $3.00 a pound, it’s lucky for us we that of the Maine Lobstermen’s Association. are at record catches. If we were at 50 mil- lion pounds a year we would all be out of he one consistent theme I’ve heard all year is the lobster price is too low. I business. I believe the time to act is now. If Ttotally agree the price is too low, but bitching about how low the price is isn’t you are lobstering, then you are seeing all going to make it go up. It’s time to shit or get off the pot. the little lobsters on bottom. It sure looks The governor’s Task Force laid out a plan to increase demand for lobster by to me like the next four or fi ve year class- putting together a new entity to market and tell the story of how sustainable and es are going to be strong. So if we don’t healthy our product is. To do this you need money. They recommended to do it right increase demand for our product, do you you would need 7-10 million dollars a year. I think this is in the ballpark of what we really believe there is any incentive for the should be striving to do. How to fund it? Well, I don’t think the feds have any free buyers to increase price? money fl oating around, and I don’t think the state does either. So that leaves it up To sum up, I know that lobster fi sher- to us. If we put a nickel a pound surcharge on at the fi rst point of sale, that would men in this state are very independent peo- raise roughly 5 million dollars which would be a good start. ple who can rarely agree on anything as a I can hear people saying we can’t afford to do that. I think you can’t afford to do group. But one thing they can agree on is nothing any longer. We all know the economy is weak but look what scallops and that they would like more money for their groundfi sh have done in the last year. These are similar products and scallops stayed product. I believe that the only way you can around $10 a pound and groundfi sh, according to NMFS, have gone up 17% in get an increase in the price for lobster is to value this year. The price of lobster has declined about 20% in value this year. If you increase demand. Then the buyers have to look at any big business they have a budget built into their business plan to market compete for the product. As it stands right their product. For example, look at Ford and Chevy trucks. How much do you think now, everyone is getting all the product they spend on marketing their products a year? I’ll bet it is 5% to 10% of their gross they need and there’s no incentive to bring the price up. revenue. Lobster is a billion dollar a year industry to the state of Maine and we spend I’m ready to take a leap of faith and put some money into our business to market roughly $300,000 a year on promotion. That is less than 0.03% on promotion. our product and increase demand. What’s the alternative? Do nothing and hope for With the costs of lobstering going up every year and the price of lobster at 100 million pounds every year. Off shore lobstermen call for zone boundary changes
By Melissa Waterman said Heanssler, who fi shes from Sunshine. believes the problem lies in the fact that Zone C re- Heanssler said that at the time the zone council sys- mains an open zone where anyone can get a license and n June, the Maine Lobstermen’s Heritage Associa- tem was passed by the state legislature in 1995, he and fi sh. “Zone C is too crowded,” he explained. “They are Ition, which was formed in 2010, began circulating a other lobstermen were assured that the zone regula- pushing to do away with the zone regulations out there letter calling for Maine’s federal permit holders to peti- tions would not extend into federal waters. He is par- [in federal waters] because they want to have 800 traps. tion Governor LePage to end the Maine’s zone council ticularly irate that lobstermen like himself in Zone C But the law says that you can only have 49 percent in authority at three miles. The group wants to rescind can no longer set the bulk of their traps in the area another zone anyway.” Dow said that he and other off- the state regulation requiring Maine’s federal waters around Mt. Desert Rock. “We used to set all of our shore lobstermen want the zone regulations because it lobstermen to fi sh according to their home zone’s re- traps there in the winter. Now we can only set 49 per- allows them to manage what he refers to as “the back- quirements. “The extension of the zone lines into fed- cent,” he said, referring to the regulation that requires yard.” “That letter didn’t go to all federal permit hold- eral waters limits Maine fi shermen’s ability to follow lobstermen to keep 51 percent of ers,” he added. “Only a few got it lobsters with the full compliment of our 800 traps,” their traps in their home zone. Th is has been tried and most said it was a joke.” the letter states. Fourteen lobstermen, primarily from That regulation was put into Jeff Putnam fi shes from Che- the Deer Isle-Stonington area, signed their names to place in 1999 through the zone before. Th ere’s nothing beague Island and is also a member the letter. council process and with approval of the Maine Lobstermen’s Heri- Chris Heanssler, president of the Association, said of the Lobster Advisory Council. new here. It’s a handful tage Association. He sees the limits that thus far the group has received one hundred per- The purpose is to enforce regula- of people wanting what on federal permit holders as an is- cent support, although he did not indicate how many tions, such as trap limits, adopted sue related to the confl ict between federal permit holders have submitted letters to the by individual zone councils. In the they want. fi xed and mobile gear. “We just governor. “This is a bullshit law if there ever was one,” winter of 2000, Representative Da- had the whole herring fi shing fl eet vid Etnier of Harpswell introduced a bill designed through here,” he said, referring to federal waters off to address confl icts stemming from the 49/51 per- Zone F. “People lost 60, 80, 100 traps out there.” cent rule. His bill would have limited the authority He said that the same loss of gear happens during of zone councils to the three mile limit of state the winter shrimp season. Putnam and other Zone F waters. Outside three miles, traps could be placed lobstermen feel trapped. “We can’t move east of here anywhere. The bill was passed in the House that because if we go into Zone E we must limit our traps spring, but was defeated in the Senate. Similar leg- to 600,” he explained. Zone F, by contrast, has a limit islation has been debated by the Legislature three of 800 traps. Prior to the zone system, Putnam said .75 mm Heavy Duty PVC/Cotton additional times, and defeated. lobstermen were free to move their gear around to Construction “All we want is to end the zones at three miles,” avoid confl ict with shrimp fi shermen. Now, because Neoprene inner “Storm Cuff” for added said Heanssler. “That’s the way it was always sup- the zone regulations extend into federal waters, such comfort and protection posed to be.” freedom is gone. “When mobile gear meets fi xed gear Double welded seams Other downeast lobstermen feel that the zone you know who is going to lose,” Putnam said. Double snap system for extra wind and regulations are doing what they were designed to Jim Henderson, Zone G council chair, thinks Put- rain protection do: allow local lobstermen to manage their tradi- nam’s complaint is old news. “Zone G and F have been tional grounds for the long-term conservation of fi ghting over the offshore area since the lines were Pants have a second 35 mills layer of PVC coated nylon welded and riveted for extra lobster populations. Jon Carter, Zone B council drawn back in the 90s,” he said. “Creating the grey wear resistance BBristol Bay® chair, said that the problem stems from the fact zone [buffer area] out there helped to tone down those that Zone C lobstermen had consistently fi shed problems.” Henderson thinks the push to remove the Designed for Professionals more than 49 percent of their traps in Zone B and, zone regulations stems from an infl ux of younger Colors – Orange and Forest Green when told they could no longer do that, were an- lobstermen who want to go farther out and set more gry. Several years ago Zone B asked for double- traps than currently allowed. This is due in part to the Call (413) 522-7406 for a Free Sample tagging of traps in both B and C zones, against crowded nature of the inshore waters. “I can under- (Registered businesses only, limit one per business) the wishes of Zone C. “Some of these guys were stand it. When you can get by yourself and not be set- fi shing all their traps in Zone B and none in Zone ting on each other, then that’s good,” he said. Available at Professional Marine Suppliers everywhere C even though C was their home zone,” he said. “This has been tried before. There’s nothing new www.VikingWear.com or call (413) 522-7406 for more info Jim Dow, who fi shes federal waters from Mt. here,” Carter said. “It’s a handful of people wanting Desert Island and is vice-president of the MLA, what they want.” more variables thanmost. predictability.” justhas Mainelobsterindustry The un- explained, “allbusinesseshave level of acertain at CEIinWiscassett,Hillisalsoasmallbusinessowner himself. “To anextent,” he the lasttenyearsdirectingMaineSmallBusinessDevelopment Centerlocated program. pants throughtheDeveloping aBusinessPlanWorkshop offeredthroughtheTAA Inc. CoastalEnterprises (CEI)businessadvisorDavid Hillasheled partici- tion of AgPlan, thebusinessplanningguidedeveloped by Maine’s andcoastaleconomies. lobsterindustry of tothefuture business forthewhat-ifsisimportant dicted hurdleinanever-changing industry, managing plans incasesomethinglike thishappensagain.” withbusinessandfi tobebetterprepared try bydropped. Iwas theneedtoforindus- struck theeconomiccrisisaslobsterprice the midstof in2008 peoplereallystruggle tor. “Isaw alotof explained AnnieTselikis, MLAeducationcoordina- ness, buttheplanningcomponentisstillimportant,” tothewaymajor changes theyhave beendoingbusi- ticipants may feellike theyhave noneedtomake wish tostrengthenanexistingbusiness. “Manypar- intend todevelop anewbusinessandthosewho one’sgrowing who business–bothforparticipants andfi management, ploring day-to-day operations, marketing, personnel forbothworstprepared andbestcasescenarios. Ex- writing abusinessplanallows fi fuel andanunstableex-vessel price, Hillsaidthat H By Annie Tselikis Planning fortheunpredictable Withconstantlyfl experienceanswering thisquestion.Inadditiontospending Hill hasplentyof t CCOMPETITIVEOMPETITIVE RRATESATES AANDND BBROADROAD C COVERAGEOVERAGE t tC COMPETITIVEOMPETITIVE R RATESATES A NANDD B RBROADOAD C OCOVERAGEVERAGE t t COMPETITIVECOMPE RATES AND the2008lobsterpricedropwasWhile anunpre- E through arecentworkshop asked thisques- inEllsworth, Joanne Thormann ow doyou planforabusinessthatcannotbepredicted?”Abouthalfway G Smithwick &Mariners A R E /PSUI8BUFS4USFFU /FX#FEGPSE ."5FM /PSUI8BUFS4USFFU /FX#FEGPSE ."5FM V O C 643PVUF'BMNPVUI .&5FMt5FM6 D A nancials lays for theblueprint O R baitand uctuating costsof B Insurance Agency business &marineinsurance. business agency providingpersonal,commercial, ag We areafull-serviceindependentinsuranceinde D LOCALL KNOWLEDGE-DEDICATED TOSERVICE 4 N 3PVUF'BMNPVUI .&5FM OC A enc S shermen tobebetter shermen E T y AAA R providin AL KN E V & I T I marineinsurance T E With affiliatedoffices inDamariscotta,Bath,andKennebunk nancial With a P M g O C personal,comm O t COMPETITIVE RATES AND BROAD COVERAGE AND BROAD COVERAGE RATES COMPETITIVE ff E t iliated o G WLED uiesavsrDvdHl hrshskoldeo businessplanningatan hisknowledgeof Hillshares David Business advisor A R E V www.smithwick-ins.comwww. p O endent C D ff . A ices inDam O R G B s ercial, D insuran E - m N Ellsworth TAA workshop.Ellsworth PhotobyAnnieTselikis A S ithw E Gillnetters, BoatBuilders,Marinasand more. Gi We specialize inLobsterBoats,Draggers,Scallopers, anywellmaintained boat Construction-wecanobtaincoveragefor /FX7FTTFM 0MEFS7FTTFM*ODMVEJOH8PPE t t 8JEF3BOHFPG1BDLBHF0QUJPOT t t t T AAA VERYCOMPETITIVELOBSTER BOAT PROGRAMS D R l ce 8 VERY COMPETITIVELOBSTER BOAT PROGRAMS
spent,” offeredHill. to quantifyhow much moneyisneededandwhenwherethatbeing thinking aboutthelobsterbusiness. canhelp “Knowing wherethemoneyisgoing a liferaft,paying fortechnicians andaccountantsarenotalways factoredinwhen costslike repacking licensing, fuel,andbaitarefamiliarconstant,butancillary often overlooked abusinessyetaddupquickly. whenrunning Expenseslike gear, abusinessesneedsandassociatedexpenses, itemsthatare of about thefullrange MinnesotafortheTAA isdesignedtohelpusersthink program, the University of J RY COMPETITIVELOBSTER E The business plan is a major component of the TAA program and serves to theTAA andserves program businessplanisamajorcomponentof The 3 COMPETITIVE RATES AND BROAD COVERAGE AND BROAD COVERAGE RATES COMPETITIVE t5FMt'BY oebr21 MIELBTRE’ SOITO 5 MAINELOBSTERMEN’SASSOCIATION November 2011 t t'BY G 1 L tor DanaMorse. “We’re hereasaresource.” Sea GrantExtensionmemberandTAA coordina- ness, theycanbeintouch withouroffi foranewbusi- concept existing businessoragreat theyfi if ness planningprocesswe want themtoknow that as resourcesthroughtheentireprocess. also areavailable MLA andMaineSeaGrantstaff them throughthefi a businessplanningconsultantwhowillsupport duction effi alternative enterprises, businessmodels, andpro- thelobstermarket, and branding,thefunctionof shops inproductqualityandhanding,marketing thevarioustie together intensive trainingwork- [email protected]. A atcpnsgtit h hc fthebusi- “As intothethick of get participants RSVP 967-4555oremail shops islimited.Please Space for TAASpace for work- 0 n hyhv da fhow toleverage their nd theyhave ideasof ciency. Participants arematched with U J BOAT PROG nlpaeo theTAA program. nal phaseof COMPETITIVE RATES AND BROAD COVERAGE AND BROAD COVERAGE RATES COMPETITIVE t RAMS
ces,” said ces,”
t t t t t E P M O C E G A R E V O COVERAGE C D A O R BROAD B D N AND A S E T A A A RATES R E V I T I T E P M O COMPETITIVE C COMPETITIVE RATES AND BROAD COVERAGE COVERAGE BROAD AND RATES COMPETITIVE BROAD COVERAGE BROAD COVERAGE AND RATES COMPETITIVE 6 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011 From the Dock Juvenile lobsters in the pipeline Pushing an agenda s a diver, I gain valuable insight they pass through the meshes in the I don’t contradict that, especially not y name is Tom Bennett. I have Ainto the behaviors and stock health wire, how many squirt out as the trap before I give them the bill. The water Mbeen a license holder for 35 years. of the lobsters that we are all trying to is rapidly hauled to the surface? Those was murky with only fi ve feet of visibil- I am one of the dreaded part-time fi sher- harvest. When I inspect the bottom lobsters are the future of the industry ity. The fi rst thing I saw as the bottom man who is always blamed for all that is chain and staple on a mooring or search and the future looks good. came into view were small lobsters. Ev- wrong in our industry. I would hope that for spun-off propeller, I take notice of Back in August, I received an “ur- erywhere! Each lobster had excavated the views expressed in Mr. Baines’ article the lobsters I see on the bottom. In gent” call from the representative of a a small depression into the mud. From are not shared by the MLA. over two decades of observing, I have yacht owner. It seems that yacht owners center to center, the depressions were become better at converting what I see place a suspiciously high “urgency” on no more than 18 inches apart. The size The idea that Mr. Baines would put the lobsters doing into how I fi sh for things that most of us would deem rou- of the lobsters ranged from just under forth legislation without going through them. The easiest and most accurate tine. Not a problem for me as I refl ect the measure to only a few inches long. the zone councils or the lobstermen prediction I can make is when the shed- that urgency on their invoice. As I hovered over them, scanning the themselves seems very wrong. I do not ders are going to hit inside. When I see They had tied their yacht to a local mud for a chock imprint, they put their believe that the chair of the LAC or any- empty claws in the harbor suddenly boatyard service fl oat after hours and claws up in defense and spun around one else has that right. Funding a pro- scattered like October leaves, it’s going left it. The fl oats are exposed to the in place. This stirred up the mud and motional campaign should be shared by to be a week. east and overnight it blew hard enough in no time the twirling lobsters had all -- processors, dealers, and lobsterman Last summer, I had to fi nd a mooring to tear the bow chock out from the teak completely obscured the bottom from -- because all should benefi t. The tiered at Great Duck Island. What I saw was rail. My question was, “Why don’t they my view. I swam all around, covering a license was brought forward and voted astonishing! Every few feet there was a buy a new chock? It’s cheaper than hiring considerable amount of bottom. Sin- down before. Mr. Baines can put any legal lobster poking out from a under a me to fi nd the old one.” Well, the chock cethe search for the chock now futile, I spin on it he wants but it was voted down rock. More lobsters, it appeared, than was hand-forged in another country to focused on seeing how big an area these once before and should not be revisited. there could be food for them. Talking fi t that boat, specifi cally. I thought that small lobsters covered. I couldn’t get It sounds like he is pushing his own per- to guys beforehand, they told me there fact probably made good conversation out of them and conservatively estimate sonal agenda and won’t stop until he gets were no lobsters there, yet. The lobsters at yacht club cocktail parties, to set those they numbered in the thousands. This his own way. may not have been trapping (can’t begin owners apart from everyone else wear- observation, added to the other positive to explain that) but they were there in ing red pants and blue blazers with large signs we have seen, bodes well for the Thank you, huge numbers. gold buttons. With the precious chock near-term future of the lobster fi shing Tom Bennett, West Bath Those types of observations are now 40 feet down, however, and buried industry and Maine’s coastal communi- helpful but not as important to me as in the mud, that novelty had worn off. ties Unfortunately for the yacht owners, the long-term trends I have seen. All At least it explained the urgency. there is a forge overseas making them a What do YOU think? Send your lobstermen have noticed the increase I took my boat over, suited up and new custom chock. thoughts to melissa@mainelobster- in the numbers of sub-legals they are began to imagine the accolades I was men.org or to MLA, 21 Western Ave. catching. You can’t haul a trap without about to receive. A surprising number Andy Mays fi shes out of Southwest Harbor fi nding small (some very small) lobsters of people still liken a routine dive in the on his boat, Lost Airmen, and provides dive #1, Kennebunk, ME 04043. all through it. Considering how easily harbor to the fi rst moon landing and service to area vessels. November 2011 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION 7 New Recruit: A new boat and more traps
By Melissa Waterman have 800 next year. “This season has been my best yet. I’ve been able to fi sh farther out and deeper,” he said. Eric sells his catch to Mazzetta’s in Spruce Head (formerly William Atwood Company) and reported no diffi culties getting either bait or fuel ravel a short distance down Westbrook Road in South Thomaston and the mail- this season. boxes begin to have one consistent name: Harjula. In a small clearing sits a T Being a young lobsterman, Eric is just getting his bearings concerning the larger trailer, black pick-up truck and two shiny snowmobiles. Eric Harjula, 21, and his management issues facing the industry. “I went to the whale meeting at Rockland black Labrador dog Sadie come to the door. “My father lives over there,” he says, High School this summer,” he said. “I listened but it is pretty confusing. I was sur- gesturing along the road. “Over there is my uncle, then my aunt, then my grand- prised that not more lobster- mother. It’s all Harjula.” men came to that one or to The family is Finnish in background, descendents of immigrants to the area in Ellsworth.” the 19th century. Eric began messing around with lobster traps when he was a small The waters around South child staying out on Andrews Island (part of the Mussel Ridge islands) where his Thomaston are known to be grandfather, Robert Perry, had a lobstering spot. “A friend and I found some washed crowded with gear and boats. up lobster traps out there and set them. We were in elementary school,” he recalled Setting gear over other traps is with a smile. “We’d haul them and fi nd two or three banded lobsters. My grandfather a common occurrence and one kept us from starving.” that Eric says he has learned to live with. “If you want to fi sh If you want to fi sh this area and fi fteen this area and fi fteen other peo- other people want to also then you have ple want to also then you have to deal with it,” he explained. to deal with it. “Snarls is what we do every day.” In seventh grade, Eric started work as a sternman in the summer months for Sadie walks across the a cousin. Then when he was 15, he purchased an 18-foot boat with an outboard kitchen and stands beside Eric, engine. He also worked as sternman for Spruce Head lobsterman and MLA board who leans over to pat the dog. member Bob Baines for two summers. He saved his money and at age 17, bought a “This is it,” he says. “I’ve never 30-foot Repco boat called Clockwork. Eric fi shed Clockwork for a few years, build- wanted to do anything else.” ing up his traps and then, just a year ago, graduated to his next boat, a 35-foot Duffy. “It’s let me fi sh longer. And I can build myself up and get more traps,” Eric explained. He formerly fi shed just until the start of November; with the new boat he fi nished his season on Christmas Eve last year. He fi shes 700 traps now and will
Eric Hajula at home in South Thomaston. Photos by Melissa Waterman.
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Highlights of the Maine Lobstermen’s Association: Leading the way in collaborative research
ebster’s Dictionary of the English Language says that the verb “collabo- from Stonington and half from Boothbay Harbor. The animals were tagged, Wrate” means “to work, one with another, to cooperate.” For most of V-notched and then released. Lobstermen along the coast received postcards its existence, the Maine Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) has led the way in on which to record information, such as location and shell condition, about any collaborations with state and federal researchers as well as other non-profi t or- tagged lobsters they might have caught. ganizations seeking to better understand lobster populations and lobstering as Maine lobstermen did it all again for the next two years, contributing 2,000 an industry. As James Acheson, professor of anthropology at the University of lobsters to be tagged and released each year. By 1985, researchers at the Uni- Maine and an authority on Maine’s lobstering communities, put it, “The MLA versity of Maine were beginning to draw some conclusions from the data. Lob- did a great job for the industry in the 1980s and 90s.” sters do migrate, but not as far as many believed. The majority moved between It all began in 1983 when the MLA’s members began wondering where two and seven miles from the area in which they were released. But a good 30 lobsters went in the winter months. Many believed that a broodstock of large percent of those lobsters recaptured had covered much larger distances. Those lobsters remained offshore throughout the year, providing the larvae that then long-distance lobsters moved an average of 60 miles from their release point, populated the coast. But there were no data. Neither the Department of Marine following the counter-clockwise Gulf of Maine current and moving offshore. Resources (DMR) nor the New England Fisheries Management Council (at that The larger the lobster, the farther it moved. time the regulatory body for lobsters in New England) could answer that ques- Since this groundbreaking study, the MLA had continued to work with scien- tion. tists and managers to generate new data and information about lobster popula- So the MLA teamed up with the Maine Sea Grant program at the University tions in the Gulf of Maine. And why not? Maine lobstermen know more than of Maine and the DMR to fi nd out. A lobster tagging study was designed to anyone else about Homarus americanus. Sharing that knowledge with those track the movements of large lobsters (between 3-1/2 and 5 inches in carapace who are charged with managing the resource has proved to everyone’s benefi t. length). MLA members provided 2,000 female lobsters, half of which came
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Garbo depends on the hard work and stewardship of Maine lobstermen. Call the MLA at 967-4555, Thank you ! or visit the web site at www.mainelobster- men.org to find out more.. # # # !"!# $% November 2011 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION 9 Exploring the creative side of Maine’s lobstermen We all know the clichéd vision of Maine lobstermen so popular in the general imagination: sturdy, taciturn, stoic about both the hardships and beauty integral to lobster fi shing. They work hard, talk about engines and haulers, and when not fi shing, are getting ready to go fi sh. Yet many if not most lobstermen have hidden talents. For the next several months we will feature stories about Maine lobstermen who are not only successful fi shermen but singers, poets, performers and artists.
By Melissa Waterman
Mooring ack Merrill likes words. The 60-year-old Islesford lobsterman has no trouble carrying a conversation Jon any number of topics: lobstering, government, or poetry. Merrill has been writing and publishing At the end of the day poems since he was fourteen years old. “I started writing as relief, a sort of therapy,” he said. in the darkness of the harbor Over the years he has published his poems in local newspapers, the Island Reader collection and other edging forward along the starboard rail publications. He has given poetry readings at the yearly Literary Evening on Islesford, at the University of each step a challenge Maine, the Penobscot Marine Museum, Northeast Harbor library and local schools. Then this year Mer- cold concentration rill hit the big time. He was invited to participate in the FisherPoets Gathering, held every year in Astoria, heavy arms lifted the chains Oregon. over the bow bit Merrill was delighted by the invitation but realized that he was lacking something. “I saw that I hadn’t the frozen air holds a man hostage written much about what I do for a living,” he said. “I’ve written about nature and the ocean and other but we’re almost home things but not about lobstering. So I wrote some poems last winter.” The FisherPoets Gathering has been the body moves forward on its own held for fi fteen years in the fi shing port of Astoria, at the mouth of the Columbia River. This year Mer- pulled in the skiff by a gentle swell rill joined more than 80 other poets, writers and musicians for the three-day event celebrating fi shing and careful now fi shermen. fi nd those oars with frozen fi ngers “Thousands of people show up for this,” Merrill explained. “They come from all over the west coast. painfully grip and pull They arrange their vacations to be there.” On his fi rst evening at the event, Merrill spoke to an audience straighten, steady of more than 300 people about Maine, lobstering, and the conservation measures used by lobstermen to point the bow towards the docks preserve the resource, then read his poems. “The west coast fi shermen have the same concerns we do. It’s as if the tide had a hold of you big versus little boats, government intervention and management,” Merrill explained. slowly ebbing towards a warm home This month Merrill and Gordon Bok, a nationally-known musician and singer from Camden, will stage food never tasting better a smaller version of the Astoria gathering on November 6 at the Sail, Power and Steam Museum in Rock- sleep a dream away land. “It won’t be just poetry but also music that involves the sea,” Merrill said. rowing home with an old clean soul Merrill’s poems give him a means to reach people in a novel way. “I’ve coached lots of different sports over the years,” he explained, “probably 60 to 70 teams over the past thirty years. I get to work with young This poem was published in The Island Reader, vol. 6, people that way. Poetry is another way to get to people, perhaps to help them.” 2011.
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The MLA newsletter continues its series of articles on endangered whales and the laws in place to protect them. New whale rules to reduce the risk of en- tangling endangered whales in vertical lines will go into effect in 2014. The fi fth part of this series investigates how right whales’ vision could affect the gear fi shermen use.
By Sarah Paquette they would have to be close to them for the gear to be in focus.” Fasick also pointed out that we don’t know how smart right whales are. “What you have is a large, slow efore comparing a whale and human eye, it is important to understand the basic moving whale with poor vision. They might see gear as a foreign object, but they parts and functions of the eye. “Think of the eye like a camera,” explained Dr. B don’t know how to react to it,” he said. Jeffery Fasick, assistant professor of biological sciences at Kean University in New In order to learn more about right whales’ eyes, Fasick said researchers need an Jersey who has researched marine mammal eyes. “You have a lens in front for focus- eye to study. “We had a good eye from a stranded calf, but it still wasn’t great,” he ing and a fi lm in the back for recording.” The colors we see are determined by our said. There aren’t many right whale strandings and even when there are, the tissues eye’s sensitivity to certain wavelengths of light. Photoreceptors called cones allow in the eye aren’t fresh, explained Fasick. The best option, according to Fasick, is to us to see in bright light, while rods help us see in less light. The human eye contains study bowhead whale eyes. “[They] are a good source of tissue and are kissing cous- three types of cones: red, blue, and green-sensitive. The combination of these al- ins of the right whales,” he said. lows us to see one million hues and colors during the day. We only have one type of In depth studies on other marine mammals’ eyesight have revealed interesting rod, though, which is why we can only see in black and white at night. fi ndings. Bottlenose dolphins were found to have acute, focused vision both in and “Whales only have one cone, which is sensitive to green light, so they see in black out of water. “Bottlenose dolphins are able to focus straight ahead and to their side,” and white in light and dark,” Fasick said. They have one cone and one rod, both of said Fasick. Eyesight appears to be important to dolphins for locating food, but they which are sensitive to light in the blue/green range of the color spectrum. “They also rely on echolocation, something right whales lack. match their cones and rods to the color of the water. To them, everything is bright,” “We are just starting to embark on the senses,” Fasick said. There is still much to explained Fasick. This means that anything that looks blue or green to the human be learned about right whales, but Kraus and Fasick have made great strides towards better understanding what whales see. And if Kraus’ research fi nds that right whales What you have is a large, slow moving whale can see red rope well enough to swim around it, fi shermen may start seeing some with poor vision. Th ey might see gear as a foreign colorful changes to their gear. object, but they don’t know how to react to it. eye is invisible in the water to whales. The one color that whales can see as a dark shape in their bright, watery environment is red. Copepods, the main food source for right whales, are red, allowing whales to see a group of them as a dark mass. “Sight is the best way to get the most information in a short period of time,” said Fasick. “Their eyes bulge out to focus on the mouth to see copepods go in.” Dr. Scott Kraus, vice president of research at the New England Aquarium in Boston wanted to know what would happen if fi shing gear came in different colors, vertical lines in particular. Kraus wanted to fi nd out if different colors would con- trast with the color of the water, allowing whales to see a potential threat. To inves- tigate, Kraus used different colored PVC pipes and placed them in front of whales. This research is still underway, so no conclusions have been made yet. However, Fasick points out that there is very little known about the optics of the eye, so color may not be the only player in the search to understand what whales see. “We (scientists) know almost nothing about the optics of the eye,” Fasick said. “We know they have a shallow eye cup, which makes us believe a whale’s focal point is only a few meters in the distance. So even if whales can pick out red vertical lines, Whales apparently can see just one color clearly underwater. Photo by NOAA.
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Lobster Chef continued from page 1 sesame seed-coated rice cake with an orange miso coleslaw garnish. According to Reagan, slow poaching lobster tails in a butter sauce is a unique approach to lobster cookery that results in a very tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat texture. The competition took place between Reagan, who works as a personal chef in the Kennebunk area, Kristian Burrin of The Seasons of Stonington, and Ryan Campbell of Lake Parlin Lodge and Cabins. Burrin prepared a Trio of Maine Lob- ster Rolls and Campbell prepared Maine Lobster Three Ways. The three chefs were selected from a large applicant pool of professionals who submitted lobster recipes in hopes of having a chance at winning the title. After masking the names of chefs and restaurants, a panel of judges reviewed the recipes and selected their three favorites based on a variety of criteria. “All three chefs did an exceptional job representing Maine lobster during its peak harvest season and showcasing innovative new ways for people to enjoy Maine lobster,” said Dane Somers, executive director of the Maine Lobster Promotion Council. “We are proud to host this annual competition and pleased to partner with Harvest on the Harbor, which allows us to share this special event with people from MLA president David Cousens (left) and vice-president Jim Dow (right) congratulate all over the country.” winner Thomas Reagan. Photo by Annie Tselikis.
Herring continued from page 1 “I’m paying 16 cents a pound this year for herring,” he explained. “That’s a 33 Even when fresh herring is available between June and October, much of it is percent rise since 2006 [when herring was 11 cents per pound].” Anderson sells her- harvested on Georges Bank. It takes a lot of fuel to make a trip to Georges Bank, ring for lobster bait at 29 cents per pound. Even though herring bait has increased in and it requires two days’ time to transport by sea back to Maine. “So if herring isn’t cost, Anderson said he is surprised that so many lobster- caught along the Maine coast, there will be additional costs,” Cieri men are willing to pay even higher prices for other bait said. Only 30% of the overall herring quota is available to be landed shipped from across the globe. “They will pay 55 cents per Frozen bait has defi nitely from the nearshore herring management area, 1A. pound for frozen bait. I’ve got guys willing to pay 62 cents taken away from herring He said that the demand for a consistent supply of bait is re- per pound for alfonsino [from New Zealand],” Anderson fl ected in the prevalence of freezers among small bait dealers and said. “They don’t bat an eyelash.” This summer Anderson sales. lobster co-operatives along the coast. “You are seeing more frozen stocked 2 million pounds of frozen rockfi sh brought in herring, as well as other baits, and so they have increased freezer from the West coast. By mid-October that supply was gone while herring purchased capacity,” Cieri noted. The dealers are doing what the lobstermen want, he added, in November, 2010, remained unsold in a cooler. making sure that bait is available consistently. That means providing frozen baits Matthew Cieri, a fi sheries biologist with DMR, thinks the increased price which cost more than fresh herring might. for herring used as lobster bait is due to a multitude of factors, not simply scarcity. According to Anderson, the demand for herring seems to have ebbed and not “It’s not so much about how much is landed but when,” he explained. Lobstermen because of its price. “We are selling less herring now than we did three or four years want bait not just in the summer and fall, but throughout the year. Thus many rely ago because everyone’s going to frozen bait,” he said. “Frozen bait has defi nitely on fresh frozen herring trucked in to Maine from other states. Transportation adds taken away from herring sales.” to the price. Price for fresh salted herring bait, last week of October
Price/pound, Maine 2011 herring, in cents Rockland .30 Stonington .44 2000 .06 MLA Members 2010 2001 .06 Rockland .28 2002 .07 Discount Directory Stonington .32 2003 .08 MLA Members! Present your MLA membership card at the 2004 .09 2009 following businesses and receive generous discounts! 2005 .11 Rockland .25 2006 .11 Stonington .28 2007 .12 All Points Marine Mount Desert Oceanarium Narragansett, RI -- discounts Southwest Harbor, ME -- Free 2008 .13 2008 available for MLA members admission for commercial 2009 .12 Rockland .26 2010 .15 Accutech Marine Propeller Stonington .30 Dover, NH -- 20% off propeller Source: DMR Newcastle Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep Source: Maine Lobstermen’s Association repair; discounts for new Newcastle, ME -- 15% off all propellers, shafting and hardware parts and service, not to be Applied Refrigeration Services combined with other offers Windham, ME -- $250 off new Northeast Marine Survey installations Harpswell, ME -- 10% off Coastal Hydraulics commercial rate Seabrook, NH -- 10% discount on all in stock items Penobscot Marine Museum Searsport, ME -- Free admission Ellsworth Auto Supply, Inc. Ellsworth, ME -- Discounts on for MLA members various items Smithwick & Mariners Insurance Casco Bay Home Improvement Falmouth, ME -- Discounted Augusta, ME -- 10% off home vessel insurance; additional 5% improvements with proof of completion of Fish- ing Vessel Drill Conductor course Friendship Trap Company Friendship, ME -- Discounts of within 5 years. 5% to 10% depending on product Wesmac Custom Boats Hamilton Marine Surry, ME -- 2% discount of Portland / Rockland / Searsport -- Discounts vary by product 12 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011 Maine Lobstermen’s Association Member Business Listing
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Rockland, ME 04841 Searsport, ME 04974 1 Portland Fish P 101 Washington Rd 59 Downeast Highway 207-594-0405 207-548-2985 Portland, ME 04 Waldoboro, ME 04572 Ellsworth, ME 04605 [email protected] vesselservices.com,v 207-350-2500 [email protected] 207-667-5524 / 800-339-2808 100 Fore St [email protected]; Purse Line Bait Portland, ME 04101 Viking Wear Midcoast Marine Electronics www.ellsworthautosupply.com 32 Bakers Wharf Rd 207-774-1772 Nat Dillenback 532 Main St. Show your MLA card to receive discounts Sebasco Estates, ME 04565 46 S. Prospect S Rockland, ME 04841 207-389-9155 20 Park Dr Miller Falls, MA 207-691-3993 www.midcoastmarine.com Harold C Ralph Chevrolet [email protected] Rockland, ME 04841 413-522-7406 Steve Ralph 207-594-8181 / 800-639-2715 www.vikingwear Sawyer & Whitten Marine PO Box A Superior Bait and Salt [email protected] 416 Commericial St Waldoboro, ME 04572 Glenn Hall www.hamiltonmarine.com HOME IMPROVEMENT 800-310-5321 Portland, ME 04101 207-879-4500 21 Balsam Lane Discounts for MLA members Casco Bay Hom [email protected] Tenants Harbor, ME 04860 118 Tillson Ave 56 Leighton Rd. 207-372-8925 Island Fishing Gear & Auto Parts Augusta, ME 04 Hews Company LLC Rockland, ME 04841 PO Box 292 207-620-9090 190 Rumery St 207-594-7073 www.sawyerwhitten.com Worcesters Lobster Bait Stonington, ME 04681 [email protected] South Portland, ME 04106 [email protected] Bruce Worcester [email protected] www.gocasco.co 207-767-2136 / 800-234-4397 259 Bowden Point Rd FINANCIAL & INVESTMENT SERVICES 10% off all home i [email protected],www.hewsco.com Prospect, ME 04981 207-469-7585 Jeff ’s Marine, Inc [email protected] Damariscotta Bank & Trust Co 2 Brooklyn Heights HYDRAULICS Island Fishing Gear & Auto Parts 25 Main St PO Box 236 PO Box 292 BOAT BUILDERS/BOAT REPAIR Damariscotta, ME 04543 Thomaston, ME 04861 Coastal Hydraulic Stonington, ME 04681 207-563-8121 PO Box 2832 SW Boatworks 207-354-8777 207-367-5959 [email protected] Seabrook, NH 0 Stewart Workman [email protected] [email protected] www.damariscottabank.com 603-474-1914 358 Douglas Highway sales@coastalhyd Lamoine, ME 04605 Logtek Inc Newcastle Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep Farm Credit of Maine ACA 10% discount on al [email protected] Tim Bourque & James Roy (ME sales) 573 Rt. 1 615 Minot Ave MLA members www.swboatworks.com Box 98, RR 2 Newcastle, ME 04553 Auburn, ME 04210 Tusket, NS BOW 3M0 Canada 207-563-8138 / 888-944-5337 207-784-0193 800-831-4230 Cushing Diesel, L Wesmac Custom Boats 207-510-1763 / 888-840-1089 [email protected] [email protected] 26 Spear Mill Rd PO Box 56 [email protected] www.newcastlemotorcars.com www.farmcreditmaine.com Cushing, ME 04 Surry, ME 04684 207-667-4822 [email protected] 15% off parts and service 354-0600, cell 54 [email protected]/www.wesmac.com Maine Financial Group diesedave6312@y 2% discount on fi berglass components Maine Coast Petroleum, Inc Weirs Motor Sales Inc Jim Amabile PO Box 295 1513 Portland Rd 15 Pleasant Hill Rd Tenants Harbor, ME 04860 Hews Company L DOCUMENTATION SERVICE Arundel, ME 04046 Scarborough, ME 04074 207-372-6962 [email protected] 190 Rumery St 207-985-3537 Coastal Documentation 207-885-5900 800-974-9995 South Portland, M [email protected] www.weirsgmc.com 111 Dennision Rd j.amabile@mainefi nancialgroup.com Midcoast Marine Supply 207-767-2136 / 8 Spruce Head, ME 04859 153 New County Rd [email protected] BAIT DEALERS 207-596-6575 Rockland Savings Bank Thomaston, ME 04861 www.hewsco.com Alfred Osgood [email protected]; Harry Mank 207-594-0011 PO Box 358 www.coastaldocumentation.com 582 Maine Street [email protected] Lonnie’s Hydraul Vinalhaven, ME 04863 Rockland, ME 04841 207-594-8465 www.midcoastmarinesupply.com 227 Middlesex Rd 207-863-2518 Northeast Marine Survey, Inc www.rocklandsavingsbank.com Topsham, ME 0 [email protected] PO Box 231 Neptune Inc 207-725-7552 Bailey Island, ME 04003 The First 39 Slater St Bessy Bait LLC 207-833-0954 PO Box 940 Attleboro, MA 02703 Marine Hydraulic 155 R Batchelder Rd [email protected] Damariscotta, ME 04543 508-222-8313 / 800-642-7113 17 Gordon Dr Seabrook, NH 03874 www.northeastmarinesurvey.us 207-563-3195 / 800-564-3195 [email protected] Rockland, ME 0 603-300-2846 / 603-300-2849 10% off the commercial rate [email protected] www.neptune-inc.com 207-594-9527 [email protected] www.thefi rst.com marinhyd@midco EDUCATION AND TRADE SHOWS www.bessybait.com Neptune Marine Products Inc Diversifi ed Business Communications Union Trust Bank, a division PO Box 2068 INDUSTRY ORGANIZAT Bait Man Co. LLC PO Box 7437 of Camden National Bank Port Townsend, WA 98368 Coastal Enterpris Al West Portland, ME 04112 66 Main St, Suite 101 206-789-3790 2 Portland Fish P PO Box 69 207-842-5500 Ellsworth, ME 04605 www.neptunemarineproducts.com Portland, ME 04 Prospect Harbor, ME 04669 [email protected] 207-610-1957 / 800-660-4537 207-772-5356 207-632-7267 [email protected] www.divbusiness.com [email protected] New England Marine & Industrial Inc [email protected] www.uniontrust.com 200 Spaulding Turnpike Portsmouth, NH 03801 Cape Porpoise Lobster Co Inc Mount Desert Oceanarium Gulf of Maine L 184 Beachwood Ave PO Box 696 FISHING, MARINE & INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES 603-436-2836 / 800-492-0779 PO Box 523 Kennebunkport, ME 04046 Southwest Harbor, ME 04679 All Points Marine [email protected] Kennebunk, ME 207-967-0900 207-288-5005 PO Box 543 www.newenglandmarine.com 207-985-8088 er [email protected] [email protected] Narragansett, RI 02882 401-284-4044 www.capeporpoiselobster.com Free admission to commercial fi shermen and [email protected] www.apmco.us North Atlantic Power Island Fishermen their families Discounts available to MLA members Sam Profi 0 PO Box 293 Channel Fish Co 15 Continental Dr. Stonington, ME 370 East Eagle St Maine Fishermens Forum Bath Lobster Supply Exeter, NH 03833 207-367-5579 ifw East Boston, MA 02128 PO Box 288 340 State Rd, Suite B 603-418-0470 sprofi [email protected]. 617-569-3200 Bath, ME 04530 West Bath, ME 04530 Island Institute lou@channelfi sh.com 207-442-7700 chilloa@mefi shcoop.org 207-386-3225 www.brookstrapmill.com Polyform US PO Box 648 7030 S 224th Rockland, ME 0 DB Rice Fisheries Penobscot Marine Museum buoysticks.com Kent, WA 98032 207-594-9209 x1 PO Box 57 5 Church St 3628 Turner Ridge Rd 253-872-0300 rsnyder@islandin Birch Harbor, ME 04613 Searsport, ME 04974 Somerville, ME 04348 207-549-7204 [email protected] [email protected] 207-548-2529 [email protected] www.polyformus.com Maine Import Expo www.plantebuoysticks.com PO Box 10228 Lund’s Fisheries Inc Seafood.com News Superior Marine Products Inc Portland, ME 04 997 Ocean Dr 8 White Pine Lane Grundens USA Ltd 15 Murray Drive 207-775-1612 Cape May, NJ 08204 Lexington, MA 02421 PO Box 2068 Raymond, ME 04071 lobsters@newme 609-884-7600 781-861-1441 Poulsbo, WA 98370 207-655-4492 www.mainelobste dbrand@lundsfi sh.com [email protected] 360-779-4439 / 800-323-7327 superioroffi [email protected] www.lundsfi sh.com [email protected] www.superiormarineprod.com www.grundens.com November 2011 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION 13
Highliner business members are noted in BOLD.
Machinery Co Maine Lobster Promotion Council Howard and Bowie Craig’s All Natural Ipswich Shellfi sh Co Inc t 2 Union St. Clayton Howard 25 Winecellar Rd. 8 Hayward St 210-6456 Portland, ME 04101 PO Box 460 Durham, NH 03824 Ipswich, MA 01938 207-541-9310 Damariscotta, ME 04543 603-397-5331 800-477-9424 thews.com [email protected] 207-563-3112 [email protected] ffullerton@ipswichshellfi sh.com ws.com www.lobsterfrommaine.com www.ipswichshellfi sh.com Nicholas H Walsh PA Cranberry Isles Fishermens Coop nc. Maine Port Authority 111 Commerical St PO Box 258 Island Seafood, LLC Pier 16 State House Station Portland, ME 04101 Islesford, ME 04646 32 Brook Rd 101 207-772-5718 Augusta, ME 04333 207-772-2191 [email protected] 207-244-5438 Eliot, ME 03903 [email protected] 207-624-3560 www.nicholas-walsh.com 207-439-8508 [email protected] [email protected] 25% off hourly, fl at fee to MLA members Eco Lobster Catch www.maineports.com PO Box 452 ‘Keag Store LOBSTER/SEAFOOD/WHOLESALE/RETAIL Owls Head, ME 04854 4 Elm St, PO Box 76 t. Maine Sea Grant Atlantic Edge Lobster 207-593-1313 South Thomaston, ME 04858 A 01349 5784 York Complex, Bldg 6 71 Atlantic Ave [email protected]; 207-596-6957 Orono, ME 04469 Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538 www.ecolobstercatch.com r.com 207-581-1435 207-633-2300 [email protected] Kent’s Wharf [email protected] Erins Pride Seafood Corp 31 Steamboat Hill T www.seagrant.umaine.edu Atwood Lobster Co 124-11 Newport Ave Swans Island, ME 04685 me Improvement PO Box 202 Island Rd Rockaway Park, NY 11694 207-526-4186 [email protected] . Penobscot Bay & River Pilots Assn Spruce Head, ME 04859 917-468-1295 4330 Jeffrey Cockburn 207-596-6691 [email protected] Kips Seafood Co 18 Mortland Rd. www.atwoodlobster.com 117 River Rd om Searsport, ME 04984 F W Thurston Co Inc Cushing, ME 04563 ~ 207-354-8997 om 207-548-1077 Bayleys Lobster Pound PO Box 178 improvement projects [email protected] PO Box 304 Bernard, ME 04612 Lake Pemaquid Inc Scarborough, ME 04070 207-244-3320 PO Box 967 Penobscot East Resource Center 207-883-4571 Damariscotta, ME 04543 PO Box 27 Finest Kind Scenic Cruises 207-563-5202 cs Inc [email protected] Stonington, ME 04681 www.bayleys.com PO Box 1828 [email protected] 207-367-2708 Ogunquit, ME 03907 www.lakepemaquid.com 03874 [email protected] Beals Jonesport Coop Inc. [email protected] www.penobscoteast.org PO Box 195 www.fi nestkindcruises.com Linda Bean’s Maine Lobster d.com PO Box 368 ll in stock items for Jonesport, ME 04649 INSURANCE 207-479-2020 Fishermen’s Heritage Lobster Coop Rockland, ME 04841 207-975-2502 Allen Insurance and Financial [email protected] PO Box 359 [email protected] Friendship, ME 04547 www.LindaBeansMaineLobster.com LLC Chris Guptill 34-36 Elm St., PO Box 578 Calendar Islands Maine Lobster LLC 207-832-6378 Little Bay Lobster Inc 4563 Camden, ME 04847 6A Portland Fish Pier 207-263-4311 [email protected] Portland, ME 04101 Friendship Lobster Coop 158 Shattuck Way 42-5399 PO Box 307 Newington, NH 03801 yahoo.com. www.alleninsuranceandfi nancial.com 207-541-9140 [email protected] www.ciml207.com Friendship ME 04547 603-431-3170 207-832-4435 [email protected] LLC Atlantic Insurance & Benefi ts 58 High St Canobie Seafoods, Inc www.littlebaylobster.com Garbo Lobster ME 04106 Belfast, ME 04915 1077 Bar Harbor Rd 207-338-9787 / 800-948-1457 Trenton, ME 04605 PO Box 334 Lobster Products Inc 800-234-4397 Hancock, ME 04640 64 Tidal Falls Rd m [email protected] 207-667-2250 www.atlantic-insurance.com [email protected] 207-422-3217 Hancock, ME 04640 m [email protected] 207-422-6238 [email protected] lic Inc Chapman & Chapman Cape Porpoise Lobster Co Inc PO Box1030 184 Beachwood Ave Georgetown Fishermen’s Coop d 89 Moores Tpke Millers Wharf Lobster LLC 4086 Damariscotta, ME 04543 Kennebunkport, ME 04046 207-563-3143 / 800-370-3143 207-967-0900 Georgetown, ME 04548 PO Box 486 [email protected] [email protected] Tenants Harbor, ME 04860 Glens Lobster Co 207-372-8637 c Engineering Co Inc www.capeporpoiselobster.com The Compass Insurance Group 12 Abner Point Rd Bailey Island, ME 04003 Muscongus Bay Lobster 04841 Paul Miner Captain Dutch Lobster Co. PO Box 880 PO Box 393 207-833-6138 28 Landing Rd [email protected] Round Pound, ME 04564 oast.com Waldoboro, ME 04572 207-790-2300 South Thomaston, ME 04858 [email protected] 207-596-7655 207-529-2251 www.lobsterboatinsurance.com [email protected] Graffam Brothers Seafood Market [email protected] TIONS PO Box 340 www.mainefreshlobster.com ses Inc InSphere Insurance Solutions Chrisanda Corp Rockport, ME 04856 207-236-8391 Pier, Suite 201 Rick Williams 9 Ferry Rd [email protected] New Harbor Co-op 4101 PO Box 74 Lewiston, ME 04240 www.lobsterstogo.com Linda Vannah Prospect Harbor, ME 04669 800-448-7663 PO Box 125 rg www.ceimaine.org 207-963-4111 [email protected] Hannaford Brothers New Harbor, ME 04554 [email protected] 145 Pleasant Hill Rd. 207-677-2791 [email protected] Lobster Foundation Conary Cove Lobster Co Inc Scarborough, ME 04074 Smithwick & Mariners Insurance 83 Conary Cove Rd 207-833-2911 Pemaquid Fishermen’s Coop 04043 366 US Route One Deer Isle, ME 04627 [email protected] PO Box 152 [email protected] Falmouth, ME 04105 207-348-6185 New Harbor, ME 04554 207-781-5553 800-370-1883 Holden Seafood Corporation 207-677-2801 [email protected] n’s Wives [email protected] Cooks Lobster House 93 E 7th Street Discounted vessel insurance for MLA PO Box 12 New York, NY 10009 212-387-8487 P.J. Lobster Company, Inc. 04681 members. Additional 5% discount if Coast Bailey Island, ME 04003 [email protected] Alan Leck/Jonathan Seavey [email protected] Guard-approved Fishing Vessel Drill Con- 207-833-6641 www.lukeslobster.com 339 Northern Ave ductor course completed within 5 years. [email protected] Boston, MA 02210 www.cookslobster.com HR Beal & Sons Inc 617-946-2430 [email protected] 182 Clark Point Rd www.pjlobster.com LEGAL SERVICES 04841 Corea Lobster Cooperative Southwest Harbor, ME 04679 42 Joseph W. Baiungo 207-244-3202 Port Clyde Fishermen’s Coop 111-A Church St. PO Box 99 nstitute.org Corea, ME 04624 [email protected] PO Box 103 Belfast, ME 04915 www.bealslobster.com Port Clyde, ME 04855 207-338-6841 207-963-7936 ort Dealers Association [email protected] 207-372-8922 [email protected],www.baiungo.com Interstate Lobster Inc 4104 Cozy Harbor Seafood Inc PO Box 269 Port Lobster Co Inc Doyle & Nelson Harpswell, ME 04079 PO Box 729 150 Capitol St PO Box 389 eadowslobster.com Portland, ME 04112 207-833-5516 Kennebunkport, ME 04046 erdealers.com Augusta, ME 04330 207-967-2081 207-622-6124 207-879-2665 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.portlobster.com www.doylenelson.com www.cozyharbor.com 14 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011
Portland Shellfi sh Co, Inc Swans Island Fishermens Coop Fishermen’s Voice Newick’s Hospitality Group, Inc 92 Waldron Way PO Box 116 PO Box 253 431 Dover Point Rd Portland, ME 04103 Swans Island, ME 04685 Gouldsboro, ME 04607 Dover, NH 03820 207-767-1625 207-526-4327 [email protected] 207-963-7195 603-742-3205 www.newicks.com info@pshellfi sh.com www.pshellfi sh.com Vinalhaven Fishermens Coop Islesboro Island News Phil’s Lobster Roll Shop 11 Main St, Box 366 PO Box 66 Shelly McLellan Post Brothers Inc Vinalhaven, ME 04863 207-863-2263 Islesboro, ME 04848 207-734-9728 PO Box 578 PO Box 541 [email protected] [email protected] Boothbay, ME 04532 Rockland, ME 04841 207-594-5824 Weathervane Seafoods Inc National Fisherman Th e Clam Shack Steve Kingston 31 Badgers Island West 121 Free St PO Box 6200 Quahog Lobster Inc Kittery, ME 03904 Portland, ME 04112 Discounted subscription Kennebunkport, ME 04046 5 Lobster Lane 207-439-0920 www.weathervaneseafoods.com 207-967-3321 [email protected] Harpswell, ME 04079 PROPELLERS www.theclamshack.net 207-725-6222 Winter Harbor Fishermen’s Coop Accutech Marine Propeller, Inc [email protected] 23 Pedleton Rd. 24 Crosby Rd Unit 6 SAFETY TRAINING Winter Harbor, ME 04693 207-963-5857 Dover, NH 03820 603-617-3626 McMillan Offshore Survival Training Ready Seafood [email protected] [email protected] PO Box 411 Hobson’s Wharf www.accutechmarine.com Belfast, ME 04915 207-338-1603 Portland, ME 04112 MARINE ENGINES 20% off propeller repair. Discounts for new [email protected] 207-541-3672 All Points Marine propellers, shafting and other hardware. www.mcmillanoffshore.com [email protected] PO Box 543 www.readyseafood.com Narragansett, RI 02882 401-284-4044 Nautilus Marine Fabrication, Inc. SALT [email protected] www.apmco.us 13 Industrial Way Maine Salt Company Seaview Lobster Co Discounts available to MLA members Trenton, ME 04605 207-667-1119 677 Coldbrook Rd PO Box 291 [email protected] Hermon, ME 04401 207-848-3796 Kittery, ME 03904 Bell Power [email protected] www.mainesalt.com 207-439-1599 34 Plains Rd. New England Propeller Inc seaviewlob@comcast.net Essex, CT 06426. 9 Apollo Eleven Rd Superior Bait and Salt Glenn Hall www.seaviewlobster.com 860-767-7502/800-255-8669 Plymouth, MA 02360 508-747-6666 21 Balsam Lane [email protected] [email protected], www.neprop.com Sea Hag Seafood Tenants Harbor, ME 04860 48 Wallston Rd. 207-372-8925 Milton Cat REAL ESTATE Tenants Harbor, ME 04860 PO Box 960 207-691-5391 [email protected] Megunticook Real Estate TRAP BUILDERS STOCK & SUPPLIES Scarborough, ME 04070 Ed Glover 207-833-9586 Branch Brook Farm Ralph Dean Shengfei Trading Co. 19 Birds Loop Rd [email protected] Owls Head, ME 04854 207-504-7606 26 Sawmill Lane Anson Chen Thomaston, ME 04861 11974 Lebanon Rd, Suite 124 [email protected] North Atlantic Power www.coastalmainere.com 207-354-8123 [email protected] Cincinnati, OH 45241 Sam Profi o 718-313-8294 Brooks Trap Mill 15 Continental Drive REFRIGERATION SERVICES [email protected] Exeter, NH 03833 603-418-0470 211 Beechwood St www.yimail68.com sprofi [email protected] Applied Refrigeration Services Th omaston, ME 04861 www.northatlanticpower.com 7C Commons Avenue 207-354-8763 Shucks Maine Lobster Windham, Maine 04062 207-893-0145 [email protected] 150 Main St, Suite 4 Northern Lights/Lugger [email protected]; Richmond, ME 04357 8 Connector Rd www.appliedrefrigeration.com Eaton Trap Co Inc 207-737-4800 Andover, MA 01810 $250 off new installations 12 Birchwood Rd [email protected] 978-475-7400 / 800-762-0166 Woolwich, ME 04579 www.shucksMaine.com [email protected] RESTAURANTS 207-443-3617 [email protected] www.northern-lights.com Spruce Head Fishermen’s Coop Barnacle Billys Inc Friendship Trap Company 275 Island Rd PO Box 837 NEWSPAPERS 570 Cushing Rd South Th omaston, ME 04858 Ogunquit, ME 03907 207-646-5575 Friendship, ME 04547 Commercial Fisheries News 207-594-7980 [email protected] www.barnbilly.com 207-354-2545 800-451-1200 PO Box 600 [email protected] Deer Isle, ME 04627 Stonington Lobster Coop Bowdoin College Dining Services www.friendshiptrap.com 207-348-1057 / 800-989-5253 PO Box 87 3700 College Station Discounts from 5 -10% for MLA members. Stonington, ME 04681 sjones@fi sh-news.com Brunswick, ME 04011 Discounted annual subscription 207-367-2286 [email protected] 207-725-3432 [email protected] Portland Trap 26-28 Union Wharf Portland, ME 04101 800-244-8727 [email protected] www.brookstrapmill.com
Sea Rose Trap Co 137 Pleasant Hill Rd. Scarborough, ME 04074 207-730-2063 [email protected]
TRUCK REPAIR/LEASING Cushing Diesel, LLC 26 Spear Mill Rd Cushing, ME 04563 354-0600, (c) 542-5399 [email protected].
David Arey Trucking 14 North Haven Rd PO Box 386 Vinalhaven, ME 04863 207-863-2281 [email protected]
Howling Hill Transportation PO Box 20 Bucksport, ME 04416 207-460-0134 [email protected].
Wa2much Trucking Greg Holmes PO Box 354 Tenants Harbor, ME 04860 542-9606 [email protected] November 2011 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION 15 Maine’s boat builders struggle in new economy By Sarah Paquette seen more demand for boat repairs than for new boats. “It’s been several years since we’ve built a lobster boat,” said owner Bruce Farrin. He said they have been build- obstering in Maine is big business, not just for the lobstermen who land many ing sport fi shing and pleasure boats, but expect lobster boats to make a comeback millions of pounds each year, but for multiple other businesses that keep those L before too long. “You can’t blame [the lobstermen], what with bait and fuel prices lobstermen afl oat. Among these, boat building has long been a key element of the they way they are,” he said. He also thinks it has been especially hard for the younger coastal economy. And as the nation’s economy continues to be uncertain, both rec- fi shermen to get boats. “Loans are not as readily available. There are strings attached reational and commercial boatbuilding have taken hits in recent years. and that makes it hard for the young guys.” Farrin does expect to see business pick Most yards that work on lobster boats are small, typically employing only three up, eventually, with repairs and people wanting a new boat once they are fi nancially to fi ve people. Joe Lowell and his brother Jamie are sixth generation boat builders at comfortable. “They’ll want something new instead of something that will nickel and Lowell Brothers in Yarmouth. Joe said business is “pretty bad.” He said they have dime them,” he said. received more calls for boats than ever, but no one is following through with orders. “We have no lobster boats [to build], it’s more pleasure boats, but that has dropped Th ere are lots of lobster boats, but they are durable and new boats are not needed.
Pete Kass, who has been building boats 33 years and operating John’s Bay Boats in South Bristol for the past 28 years, has already seen the demand for new boats increase. “We’re the only place building wood boats steady. The benefi t to us is we’re the go-to place. We have our little niche,” Kass said. “I’m surprised someone else isn’t building wooden boats, as there is a demand.” Kass did see the demand for boats crash in 2008 like most people, but has been lucky to have business pick up again last year when the company took its fi rst lobster boat order in four years. “The last lobster boat I built [before 2010] was for myself, because there were no orders,” he said. So far this year, John’s Bay Boats has already taken six orders for lobster boats. It’s unlikely that boatbuilding will ever disappear entirely from the Maine coast. Maine’s boat building and marine trades industry benefi ted from a $15 million feder- al Department of Labor grant in 2006 which invested in training, marketing and re- search and development of this sector. “We were able to train 2,000 people, which is Continued on page 17
off, too. People are looking for good, used boats that are cheap, but most of those have been bought already.” Lowell believes that the price of bait and fuel has dis- couraged lobstermen from spending money on new boats. “We saw things start to slow down in 2006,” he said. “[Business and demand] will never be like it was, but it will come back.” “The volume is not great, for two reasons. Lobster boats are durable, so they last longer and there aren’t many new people entering the fi shery,” said Charles Colgan, professor of Public Policy and Management at the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine and chief economist on the National Ocean Economics Project. He explained that the lobster boat market is mostly a replace- ment market and one that is not likely to change. “People tend to fi nd a boat that works for them and they stick with it,” he said. According to Colgan, fi shing boats can be broken into two parts: lobster boats and ground fi shing boats. “There are lots of lobster boats, but they are durable and new boats are not needed,” said Colgan. As for the demand for ground fi shing boats, Colgan said that “management has taken boats out of the water, so there is no demand there.” Stacey Raymond, owner of General Photos by Judy Waterman. Marine, Inc. in Biddeford agrees that the demand for both commercial and recre- ational boats is low right now. “There are A two scenarios for what will happen in the future,” he said. “Pleasure boats will either completely collapse, which it already has, or the economy will straighten out and be all fi ne.” Raymond recently was able to rehire - former employees thanks to a commission - to build twenty boats for Japanese fi sher- men that lost vessels in the tsunami this spring. “A past customer lined us up with the deal,” he explained. Through Opera- tion Blessing International (OBI), a non- profi t organization based in Virginia, Gen- eral Marine will stay busy assembling the boats in Maine. Although the media cover- age resulting from the order has been good “R.E. Thomas products have integrity.” for the company, Raymond said that busi- ness is not what it used to be. “The boat . / 0 building business has all but collapsed. Not / 1 many people are looking for new boats,” Raymond said. “We build a boat every once in a while, but storage and repairs is what’s www.rethomasmarinehardware.com getting us by right now.” Farrin’s Boat Shop in Walpole has also
16 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011 Lawsuit alters access rights across beaches
First published on September 9 in The Quoddy Tides. Reprinted with permission By Edward French recent Maine Supreme Judicial Court ruling in an Eastport case is being viewed A by some as fundamentally altering the law on the public’s right to use privately owned intertidal areas, while others see the decision as still narrowly limiting those rights. The case involved whether the public has the right to walk across intertidal lands to reach the ocean in order to scuba dive. Although the court was unanimous in deciding to allow scuba divers to cross privately owned beaches, the justices were the public’s right to use intertidal land for navigation. The court also ruled that the divided in their interpretation. social activities constituted a trespass and awarded McGarvey and Kleintop one dol- There may not be many surfers in the Eastport area, but the national Surfrider lar, together with interest and costs. That part of the judgment was not appealed. Foundation entered the legal battle as a friend of the court party to advocate for Although all six supreme court justices agreed with the superior court decision, stronger beach access rights in Maine. The justices, though, only ruled on the issue they split on their reasoning. In the analysis by three of the justices, they note that of beach access for scuba diving and did not determine whether other uses of the in Maine the upland owner “ordinarily has fee ownership of the intertidal land,” but intertidal zone, such as surfi ng, fall within the public trust rights. However, that did private ownership “is subject to the public right to use the intertidal zone.” Those not prevent Adam Steinman, who argued the Surfriders’ case, from stating, “This is authorized public uses are related to fi shing, fowling and navigation, with a “sympa- being hailed as the broadest general public ocean access win in Maine in 30 years.” thetically generous” construction in Maine’s common law. They note that common In 1989, the supreme court had struck down a coastal land-use law that asserted law “has regularly accommodated the public’s right to cross the intertidal land to the public’s right to use intertidal zones for general recreation, in a lawsuit involving reach the ocean for ocean-based activities.” For instance, upon landing a boat on Moody Beach in Wells. That case found that public rights in privately owned inter- the intertidal land, the operator may pass freely to the lands of others besides the tidal areas are limited to those specifi cally listed in the 1647 Colonial Ordinance, owners of the fl ats. They also argue that the public trust rights in the intertidal zone which are fi shing, fowling and navigation. should not just be strictly limited as related to only fi shing, fowling and navigation. The Eastport case started in 2008 and was brought by William “Skip” McGarvey In their decision, they concluded that “the public trust rights are at least broad Jr. and his mother, Mary Jo Kleintop, who has since passed away. They own property enough to allow the public to walk across the intertidal lands to enter the water and in Eastport’s South End that extends to the mean low-water mark and that stretches scuba dive.” The standard they propose is to “strike a reasonable balance between in front of the property owned by Steven Whittredge and Jonathan Bird. McGar- private ownership of the intertidal lands and the public’s use of those lands.” vey and Kleintop were represented by John Foster of Eastport, and Whittredge The other three justices, in their concurring opinion, concluded that some forms and Bird by Dennis Mahar, with an offi ce in Calais. Bird operates a commercial of non-boat-related propulsion through the water, including scuba diving, could be scuba diving business, and he and his clients were not able to reach the water from found to constitute a form of navigation. They argue that the opinion by the other his property without crossing McGarvey’s intertidal land. In November 2008 Mc- justices would create a new right to cross privately owned intertidal land to gain Garvey and Kleintop sought a court injunction prohibiting Bird from crossing his access to the ocean, which “would exceed even the most ‘sympathetically gener- intertidal land for scuba diving. McGarvey also alleged trespass related to the scuba ous’ interpretation of fi shing, fowling and navigation.” It would “fundamentally diving and social activities that Bird engaged in on the intertidal land. In January alter, rather than merely expand, Maine’s existing common law.” Instead, these three 2010, Superior Court Justice Kevin Cuddy found in favor of Bird, declaring that justices apply a broad interpretive approach in construing the uses arising from the crossing of the intertidal land for recreational or commercial scuba diving is within public trust rights of fi shing, fowling and navigation.” Continued on page 21 November 2011 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION 17
Lobster prices continued from page 1 bad either. You have to remember that record catches don’t go with record prices.” He expressed surprise that the price has remained as stable as it has this fall given the Maine lobster prices volume of lobster landed since August. Greg Hansen, regional manager for the Mazzetta Company in Spruce Head, Week of October 10, 2011 Week of October 12, 2009 wouldn’t comment about the change in price between this year and last year. “It has been a very competitive year,” he noted. “A lot of wharfs had trouble with supply straight 3.20-3.60 straight 2.65-3.10 jumping around. The places we established this spring have been loyal, both to us and select 4.10-6.60 select 3.80-3.96 us to them.” new shell 2.90-3.25 new shell 2.75-3.85 Somers doesn’t think lobster prices are going to pick up dramatically in the near- old shell 3.95-6.00 old shell 4.25-4.85 term. “The large-scale negative economic conditions here in the U.S. which is the world’s largest market for lobster, and in Europe, our second largest market, do not indicate strong buying behavior,” he said. “Consumers are faced with rising food Week of October 11 2010 Week of October 13, 2008 prices at the same time as their disposable income is being reduced and there is wide- spread uncertainty regarding economic factors for the near term. This will result in straight 3.10-3.65 straight 2.25-2.90 large-scale buyers being very conservative with their buying and inventory levels.” select 3.75-5.00 select NA new shell 3.20-3.80 new shell 2.50-2.80 old shell 4.00-5.50 old shell 4.50-5.75 Source: MLA
Boatbuilding continued from page 15 amazing,” said Susan Swanton, executive designed to get kids comfortable using director at Maine Marine Trades Associa- tools and working with wood. “Wood- tion. The grant expired in 2009, so it is en boat building isn’t the easiest career Fuel & Fisheries: hard to say how it has benefi ted the boat path,” Ravenhill noted. The community, building industry. “When the economy which once had a bustling waterfront, $ turns around and business picks up, we now has only two boat builders left, both will be able to say ‘yes, we had a positive on Great Cranberry. Join the Island Institute and Coastal impact’”, said Swanton. “Until then we “Kids don’t realize [boat building] is Enterprises, Inc. to learn about are anxious for things to turn around for a profession. We are losing role models,” practical, easy-to-implement practices the better.” he said. “Growing up, I was around lob- and retrofits for commercial fishermen Although demand for new boats is stermen every summer and that’s what interested in decreasing their fuel use low at the moment, the next generation I wanted to be when I grew up.” So he and overhead costs. of boatbuilders is learning the tools of did for a few years, fi shing in the waters Free and Open to the Public - Refreshments will be served the trade on Islesford. For the last six off Islesford. He understands the impor- Monday, November 7, 5:00-7:00 p.m. years, a summer program for children tance role models have on young people. Penobscot East Resource Center, Stonington ages 7 to 17 has taught students about “I wonder if I would want to be a boat Tuesday, November 29, 5:00-7:00 p.m. the importance boat builders have in builder is that’s what I grew up around,” communities. Brendan Ravenhill, execu- Ravenhill said. Tuesday, December 6, 6:00-8:00 p.m. tive director of Islesford Boatworks, said Vinalhaven School* the program has built a boat each year. (*Remote participation options are available for the December 6 event. The program, open to children in Isles- FMI contact Amanda LaBelle 594-9209 ext. 129.) ford and surrounding communities, is
We know you’re out there: talented lobstermen with Photos can be color or black and white. Winning entries an eye on the coast. So show us what you’ve got! Send will receive prizes donated by our business members your photographs to the second annual Maine lobster and will be featured in the February, 2012 newsletter. photo contest. Submissions from 2010 and 2011 photo contest win- The categories are: ners will not be accepted. Submit your photos to me- • Best crew shot [email protected] or mail them to 33 Grove • Best scenic St., Rockland, ME 04841. Deadline is January 15. • Best lobster/bait close-up • Best action shot 18 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011 Meeting Roundup
MLA Board of Directors Meeting and has recommended its full adoption by the Commission. The Amendment will modify the fi shing mortality reference points to include a threshold level, includes The MLA directors met on October 4 in Belfast. Executive director Patrice told a more timely and comprehensive reporting system, and allows for a limited entry the directors that the MLA fi nancials are on track and 2012 budget will soon be program to be pursued through the adaptive management addendum process. fi nal. Memberships are now overdue and reminders are in the mail. The MLA will At the meeting, the Section was presented with the preliminary results of the be presenting a check from the MLA Relief Fund to the family of Dave Mahonen. northern shrimp stock assessment, which fi nds that the stock is overfi shed and over- The Governor’s offi ce is continuing the search for a DMR Commissioner, and fi shing is occurring. Additionally, shrimp abundance in the western Gulf of Maine hopes to have the position fi lled in January. In the interim, Pat Keliher continues has declined steadily since 2006. The latest survey showed a much lower than nor- to serve as Acting Commissioner. Chellie Pingree’s offi ce reported that NOAA is mal abundance of large females and juveniles, with the remaining males and females aware that the Jonesport buoy is down and it is due to be repaired in November being small for their age. when ship time from a USCG vessel becomes available. Both MLA and DMR sub- Given these fi ndings and the fact that there were signifi cant overharvests in both mitted comments to NMFS with regard to the development of the vertical line rule. the 2009/2010 (28% above harvest limit) and 2010/2011 (48% above harvest limit) The review of the Maine DMR was released in September and included recommen- fi shing seasons, the Section will be considering a signifi cantly reduced harvest limit dations that the fi shing industry should invest in seafood marketing and the lobster for the 2011/2012 fi shing season. The Technical Committee has recommended a industry should explore trap reductions. harvest limit of approximately 1800 mt. The quota for the offshore Area 3 herring fi shery has been caught, and it is anticipated that the inshore 1A fi shery will be caught by early November. MLA is Summary of MLA comments on Menhaden Fishery Management submitting comments on the ASMFC draft menhaden plan. Bob Baines updated the Plan Addendum V directors on the Lobster Advisory Council’s discussions to monitor potential risks from non-native bait supply. They are working with state regulators and scientists The Maine Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) is providing comments on Draft to identify statutory and regulatory options to limit risk of introducing disease from Addendum V to Amendment 1 of the Menhaden Fishery Management Plan. One these baits. of MLA’s primary areas of focus in recent years has been on ensuring a steady and David Cousens led a discussion on the DMR review recommendations that the sustainable bait supply for Maine lobstermen. seafood industry should invest in marketing. He noted that the price of lobster has The fate of the menhaden management plan is extremely important to the Maine gone down this year compared to last and the industry has been saved by the vol- lobster industry. Pogies are an important source of bait for Maine lobstermen, sec- ume of lobster being landed. He asked the MLA Board for feedback on the idea of ond only to Atlantic herring. And lobstermen cannot fi sh without bait. increasing our investment in marketing. For many years, Atlantic herring has served as a plentiful, sustainable and local Overall, MLA directors support the idea of increasing investment in market- source of bait. Recent changes to the herring management plan have put a squeeze ing Maine lobster. They also agreed that despite a growth in landings, the bottom on the availability of herring as a source of bait for the Maine lobster fi shery, due line for most lobstermen is shrinking. However, they expressed concern over who to decreases in available inshore quota. Maine continues to undergo a major diver- should fund such an effort, and a lack of trust that additional profi ts generated from sifi cation of its bait supply. As a result, pogies have become a critical source of bait marketing would be passed from dealers to harvesters. Others expressed a lack of for the Maine lobster fi shery. confi dence in the Maine Lobster Promotion Council. The MLA strongly supports the continued, sustainable management of the At- The board discussed at length ideas that could gain broad support from the lob- lantic menhaden fi shery. Sustainable management and strong conservation measures ster industry concerning marketing. MLA directors discussed the idea of harvesters are imperative to ensure the long-term health of this important species. Accord- taking control of a new marketing effort, or creating a brokerage to buy and sell ing the most recent stock assessment, menhaden remains a healthy and abundant lobsters in a transparent manner. Bob Baines said that the LAC will continue discus- resource. The menhaden stock is at target abundance, twice the level that would be sion of marketing at its November meeting. The MLA directors generally agreed considered overfi shed. that lobstermen are not likely to support additional investment in marketing without ASMFC must base its management decisions on the best available science. MLA having control of the marketing and some level of guarantee that they will get the urges the Board to wait to move forward with any signifi cant changes to the man- return on the investment. agement plan until both the results of next year’s stock assessment and the industry- MLA Directors will meet on November 15 at 5 p.m. at Darby’s in Belfast. Com- based aerial study provide the most up to date information on the current status of missioner Keliher will address the Board about the independent study of the lobster the stock. entry system DMR will be conducting. The MLA strongly urges the Board to engage in a full amendment process to ensure that allsocial and environmental impacts of changes to the menhaden plan ASMFC Northern Shrimp Section are fully understood. We believe this can not be done adequately until the results The Commission’s Northern Shrimp Section approved Amendment 2 to the of the new stock assessment are available next year. If the Board does set the new Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Northern Shrimp at its October meeting overfi shing level at F15, the target fi shing mortality rate should be set equal to the threshold level. 0V`QJ Q`R:$VQ`@JH Membership has 0V`QJ Q`R:$VQ`@JHQ`]Q`: VR]VH1:C1 # # # Become a member today and be a part of the oldest lobstering organization in the state. # # The MLA mission is to advocate for a sustainable lobster resource and the fi sher- "`QR%H :`V:0:1C:GCV .`Q%$.Q%`:% .Q`1 By Graham Shimmield, Bigelow Laboraro- (MTAF) awarded the Laboratory $4.5 million toward The Laboratory ry for Ocean Sciences executive director construction of the Bigelow Center for Blue Biotech- has attracted nearly nology, one of three Core Science Centers. Combined 100 scientists from with private donations, the MTAF award became the around the world minent oceanographer Dr. Charles Yentsh estab- fi rst, pivotal step in building a new Ocean Science and to the Boothbay re- Elished Bigelow Laboratory in Boothbay Harbor Education campus in East Boothbay. The $4.5 million gion to learn tech- in 1974 as an independent, non-profi t research center, MTAF award has attracted over $28 million in federal niques that are on bringing scientifi c projects to the Maine coast from the and private funds, supported 16 well-paid scientifi c re- the front lines of University of Massachusetts and Woods Hole Oceano- search jobs, and maintained 44 construction jobs. The modern marine mi- graphic Institution (WHOI). The Laboratory is named MTAF award was a critically important catalyst for ad- crobial science. The for oceanography pioneer Dr. Henry Bryant Bigelow, ditional support. The Laboratory received a grant of leverage and value of whose research in the Gulf of Maine became the foun- $4.8 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment public research and dation of modern ocean science in the early twenti- Act funds from the National Science Foundation in development funds eth century. His multi-year expeditions in the Gulf of September 2010 to build the Center for Ocean Bio- are vital to Maine’s Maine —where he collected data on currents, plank- geochemistry and Climate Change. Then, one month knowledge economy, ton, and fi sh populations—established a new model later, the Laboratory received a $9.2 million award from especially in those re- for intensive, ecosystem-based oceanographic research the National Institute for Standards and Technology to gions that have tradi- Dr. Graham Shimmield has served in the United States, and made the Gulf of Maine one build the Center for Ocean Health. Another $13 mil- tionally relied on very as the executive director of the of the most thoroughly studied bodies of water for its lion of the Laboratory’s own funds has been invested seasonal employment. Bigelow Laboratory since March, size in the world. Dr. Bigelow’s approach to oceanog- in this project through a loan from The First, providing It may not be pos- 2008. Dennis Griggs photograph. raphy stressed the interdependence of the biological, the match required by these grants. sible to sustain historic levels of federal funding in chemical, and physical sciences — a perspective has Once completed in September 2012, the three cen- the face of growing federal budget defi cits, however. been the cornerstone of Bigelow Laboratory’s pro- ters will house all of the Laboratory’s current science It is also clear that opportunities are emerging for the grams throughout its history. activities, replacing its leased and aging facilities and Laboratory to form partnerships with educational in- Over the years, Bigelow Laboratory has become signifi cantly expanding its research capabilities. The stitutions and the private sector. These new relation- known throughout the world for its contributions to new campus will keep Bigelow Laboratory at the fore- ships can broaden the Laboratory’s research activities ocean science and for its unique culture of scientifi c front of fundamental ocean research, attracting new and diversify its revenue sources for a more sustainable freedom, open interdisciplinary collaboration, men- scientifi c talent to Maine and creating a bridge between future. torship, and entrepreneurship. Scientifi c exploration discovery science and technology transfer, education, at the Laboratory is conducted across multiple inter- and public outreach initiatives. faces—atmosphere, ocean, sediments—and at multiple The Laboratory’s success in competing for re- scales, from individual microscopic cells in the labora- search grants is a result of the international repu- tory to fi eldwork on the open seas and across entire tation of its senior researchers; its willingness to ocean basins. The Laboratory’s basic research focus is invest in high quality science, resulting in discover- on the microbial life and biogeochemical dynamics of ies that have major impact; a strong research ethic the world’s oceans, advancing society’s understanding centered on individual scientists working in a ro- of interactions between ocean ecosystems, global pro- bust, supportive culture; and an enthusiasm for cesses, and the environment. technological innovation. In June 2009, the Maine Technology Asset Fund Island Institute to make Keep more of what you money available to earn with tax-free bonds. Chris Arnett Financial Advisor entrepreneurs . 305 U.S. Route 1 Suite 4 Yarmouth, ME 04096 207-846-5854 This fall the Island Institute in Rockland launched a new program called the Island and Coastal Inno- Member SIPC vation Fund. The purpose of the fund is to sustain www.edwardjones.com the economic vitality of coastal and island commu- nities. The Island and Coastal Innovation Fund sup- ports entrepreneurs, invests in transformative busi- Yes, that’s right, ness models, and purchases and reallocates assets that will ensure a diversifi ed economy through an we’ve gone social! array of funding opportunities. he Island and Coast- al Loan Fund will make micro-loans from $1,000 to And we want you $10,000 to island and coastal businesses that intend to increase wealth or decrease the cost of living on- to be our friend. island. The Island and Coastal Investment Fund will analyze business plans for the potential to trans- form island and coastal economies. If a plan meets established standards, the Island Institute will seek funds to invest up to $100,000 in qualifying busi- nesses. The Island Institute Permit Bank LLC will Join our lively community on 65 years, three generations, initially purchase groundfi sh permits for deploy- ment in island and coastal economies as fi sh stocks Facebook! one purpose: rebuild. These permits will be leased to fi shermen www.facebook.com/ the best automotive and tire to support gear research, incent the use of more mainelobstermen service possible. selective fi shing gear, and provide a way for future fi shermen to enter the fi shery. Eastern Tire & Auto Service For those interested in investment capital to start 70 Park St., Rockland or expand their business or to lease grounfi shing www.easterntireinc.com - 594-5250 permits, contact Aaron Fuchs at the Island Institute, 594-9209, ext. 124 or [email protected]. 20 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011 So you want to know: Are we farming lobsters? here’s no two ways about it. There are a lot of lobsters out there in the Gulf lobsters by more than 10 percent even though the water around Monhegan Island Tof Maine. Landings have increased steadily since the 1990s, hitting 93 million tended to be warmer. pounds landed in Maine last year. And this year appears to be shaping up for a Grabowski concluded that “herring bait is augmenting lobster populations at similar total. Georges Island, and potentially throughout coastal Maine where fi shing is intense. The ever increasing abundance of lobsters has led some people to wonder if it Natural prey resources are likely limiting lobsters in the absence of bait subsidies at might be due to the steady diet those lobsters receive from lobstermen. After all, sites such as Monhegan Island.” He went on to say that “increased lobster produc- millions of pounds of herring feed lobsters of all sizes each year. Does that diet tion as a consequence of herring bait is likely refl ected in greater landings because mean that Maine lobstermen are actually farming lobsters? lobsters achieve legal size more rapidly and are potentially larger when harvested.” Jonathan Grabowski, formerly of the Gulf of Maine Research Institute and now But does that mean lobsters are a farmed commodity, like oats or salmon? We associate professor of biology at Northeastern University, did a study to answer that welcome your thoughts on the topic. question. He looked at juvenile lobsters caught in areas without bait by using a study site off Monhegan Island during its closed season and lobsters caught in areas rich with bait with a study site at Georges Islands, south of Port Clyde. He studied the stomach contents of young lobsters caught in the two areas to determine how much herring bait contributes to a lobster’s growth and over- all weight. A lobster left alone typically eats creatures such as crabs, sea urchins, mussels, and clams. Grabowski found that crabs, in fact, make up a huge portion of the diet of the Monhegan Island lobsters, up to 50 percent. The stomachs of the lobsters caught around Georges Islands, on the other hand, were stuffed with her- ring bones, presumably consumed as bait. Furthermore, those lobsters eating herring on a consistent basis put on weight much faster than those in Monhegan waters. Lob- sters caught around Georges Island outgrew the Monhegan Island Photo by Hayley Griffi n ® Marine Power Keep your traps fishing even when SPECIAL DISCOUNTS ON ALL you can’t get to ‘em! All Natural Salted Hairless Cowhide NEW COMMERCIAL ENGINE PURCHASES LONG-LASTING and AFFORDABLE Model HP Discount C7 / Tier II 460 $1,000 LOBSTER BAIT C9 / Tier II 500 $1,500 Available in 30 gal. drums or 5 gal. pailss C12 / Tier II 660 / 700 $1,500 C18 / Tier II 855 $2,000 www.bessybait.com Phone: 603.300.2846 or 603.300.2849 Email: [email protected] For details and a price quote, please Bessy Bait is sold at our warehouse located at contact Stewart Tuttle at 207-885-8082. 155 rear Batchedler Rd., Seabrook NH 03874 ApprovedApproved www.miltoncat.com Please call for HOURS and PRICING! Bessy Bait is also sold at all Brooks Trap Mill locations. Maine Labeling November 2011 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION 21 Gulf of Maine directed herring fi shery is closed he National Marine Fisheries (NMFS) announced that the directed herring fi sh- Tery in all management areas, with the exception of Area 2 off of southern New England, is closed for the remainder of the year. The directed fi shery for the offshore herring fi shery known as Area 3 which takes place around Georges Bank was closed beginning October 3. The inshore herring fi shery for Area 1B and Area 1A, located off the coast of Maine, were closed to the directed fi shery on October 1 and October 25, respectively. In 2010, only 40% of the Area 3 quota was landed, and the Area 1A fi shery was not closed until December. On January 1, 2012, the quotas for Areas 1B and 3 for the 2012 fi shing year will become available and the directed fi shery will re-open. The directed fi shery for Area 1A typically does not reopen until June. Th e Bait Report 2011 Herring Catch and Quota Area Quota % of quota 2011 quota 2010 quota (as of 10/25) Area 1A 27,244 93% 26,251 26,546 Area 1B 3,987 91% 4,362 4,362 A herring boat comes to the dock in Port Clyde. Photo by Patrice McCarron. Area 2 12,609 57% 22,146 22,146 Area 3 38,146 89% 38,146 38,146 Total 77,818 83% 90,905 90,700 Data from the NMFS Weekly Atlantic Herring report. IVR data are compared to federal and state dealer data each week and dealer reports are used to supplement the IVR when necessary. These supplements include data from non- federally permitted inshore fi sheries when provided by state agencies or from other sources. Tidal Access continued from page 16 The decision could give an indication of how the court might view the question of harvesting rockweed on private property in the intertidal zone. The issue of ownership of the rockweed is not clearly settled, and many believe that a court case is needed to resolve the question. Of the recent supreme court decision, Bob Morse of North American Kelp, which has been allocated sectors for harvesting rockweed in Cobscook Bay, com- ments, “It’s another case indicating that people have the right to use the intertidal zone.” He believes that a court case is not needed to settle the question of the right to harvest rockweed in the intertidal zone, since seaweed harvesting is a fi shery. Un- Herring management areas in the Gulf of Maine. Source: NEFMC. der state law, fi shing is the taking of a marine organism, which includes any animal, plant or other life that inhabits the waters below high tide. If rockweed harvesting is not allowed as a fi shery in the intertidal zone, then clamming and worming also would not be allowed, he argues. However, Robin Hadlock Seeley, one of the directors of the Rockweed Coali- tion, which seeks to protect intertidal rockweed, comments, “I’m a marine biologist, not a lawyer. However, having carefully read the court’s decision, I see nothing that hy-liner would change my understanding from a study done at the University of Maine con- cluding that rockweed belongs to the upland landowner. The state sells permits to cut rockweed, while asserting it does not actually know who owns the rockweed. No rope company wonder landowners get upset.” The Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) has not taken a position on the question of ownership of rockweed. Meanwhile, the number of properties in Washington County that landowners have listed on a voluntary no-harvest registry for rockweed has increased to 500. Acadian Seaplants, which is respecting the no- SINK FLOAT harvest registry and previously had operations in Cobscook Bay, is not operating in ROPE ROPE the bay this year. Five other companies and individuals were also allocated sectors in the bay for rockweed harvesting by the DMR this year, and a mechanical harvester is being used on the sectors allocated to George “Butch” Harris of Eastport and Pat Driscoll of Yarmouth. So far the harvesters have not been cutting on properties on Highest quality ropes made in Maine the no-cut registry. With such a signifi cant percentage of the bay on the no-harvest SuperSink • SteelLiner • EasyPull • Float Ropes list, it’s not clear whether it will be feasible for companies to continue harvesting while respecting landowners’ wishes. It’s possible that a court case could ensue if hy-liner rope company harvesting does occur on those properties. st. george, maine 22 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011 In the News New Web site focuses on menhaden Friendship Trap gets new owner Saving Seafood, a non-profi t organization based in Virginia, has unveiled a new Friendship Trap, located in Cushing, was sold to Chris Anderson of Virginia Web site focused solely on menhaden (www.savingseafood.org/saving-menhaden. in October. The company was founded in 1977 by Pike Bartlett. Anderson brings html).The Saving Menhaden Fisheries Web site is sponsored by the Menhaden Fish- lifelong experience in the manufacturing industry to the company. Friendship Trap eries Coalition. The new site features news stories on the science, economic impact, president Mike Wadsworth will continue with the company in an advisory role. “As state, federal and regional management and conservation of menhaden fi shery. far as the customer base is concerned, they can expect more of the same regarding who they deal with here,” Wadsworth explained, noting that the same reliable team will continue on at Friendship Trap. Anderson stated, “It is my intention to continue providing the great customer service Friendship Trap is known for, and to ensure Where do the females go? we continue to provide traps that are built the best, built to last, and built your way.” Heather Koopman, senior scientist at the Grand Manan Clear out the clutter Whale and Seabird Research Station, is conducting a study to fi nd out where berried fe- Lobstermen can get rid of wire or wood traps, buoys, warp, nets, or other equip- male lobsters go to during ment at no cost. The Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation (GOMLF) will take in the winter months. Koopman unwanted gear on Friday, November 18, in Kennebunkport at the old Highway believes the travel patterns of garage lot at 47 Beachwood Avenue between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. All gear collected large female lobsters are dif- will be repurposed, recycled for metal scrap, or burned at a waste-to-energy facil- ferent from those of smaller ity. For more information, contact Laura Ludwig at 263-5300 or [email protected]. lobsters. Her study replicates This project is part of a new fi shing gear recycling project, the Maine Derelict Trap one conducted thirty years ago Prevention and At-Sea Recovery, funded through the National Fish and Wildlife in the Bay of Fundy at a time Foundation (NFWF)’s Fishing for Energy program. when fi shing practices and water temperatures were very different. During the fall, Koopman and colleagues are putting blue zip ties on a claw of 2,000 berried female lobsters caught in the waters around Grand Manan Island then releasing the animals. She asks that lobstermen tell their sternman about the project. If anyone fi nds a lobster with a blue tag, please note the number on the tag, the date found and location, then toss the lobster back with the tag still attached. The in- formation should be sent to [email protected] or to the Grand Manan Whale and Seabird Research Station, 24 Route 776, Grand Manan, NB E5G1A1. Veteran’s Day lobster contest The Maine Lobster Promotion Council is sponsoring a Veteran’s Day lobster contest in concert with WLOB radio to honor Maine’s veterans. Any veteran, family ince 1954, working to sustain and advance the Maine lob- member of a veteran, or active member of the armed services can be nominated to Sstering industry, its traditions and way of life. receive a complete lobster dinner for two from a participating restaurant. Once each 21 Western Ave #1 week for fi ve weeks a winner will be selected by radio host Ray Richardson. Then on Veteran’s Day, November 11, eleven names will be selected from all the names sub- Kennebunkport, ME 04043 mitted. The eleven winners will receive a lobster dinner for four from a participating 207-967-4555 restaurant. MLPC executive director Dane Somers said that the contest was part of the “October is Lobster Month” promotional campaign. “It’s also a way to honor www.mainelobstermen.org of veteran’s service to our country and in remembrance of Veterans’ Day,” he said. www.mainelandings.org It pays to advertise. News & Comment for and by the Fishermen of Maine And we have the The Fishermen’s Voice SUBSCRIBE TODAY! rates you want. From the Canadian Maritimes, We Like To Hear From You! All along the Maine Coast, For a modest cost, you $ and in ports south to Cape Cod - To subscribe send check or money order for 18.* along can get your business with the information below to: Fishermen’s Voice noticed by the state’s P.O. Box 253 , Gouldsboro, ME 04607 IT’S WHAT 6,000 licensed lobster- *Canadian subscriptions are $23 U.S. dollars FISHERMEN READ! men, their familes and Name ______their friends. Address______City ______207-963-7195 We go where the State, Zip______lobstermen are. And MLA 05/10 Send letters, news, stories to: you can come too! Join us in Supporting the Tradition of Making One’s Living P.O. Box 253 Gouldsboro, ME 04607 from the Sea by Advertising in the Fishermen’s Voice. We have Email: [email protected] Call April Gilmore,967-4555 one of the best circulations among the industry’s newspapers, 8,000 copies or email [email protected] distributed from Kittery to Eastport and 2,000 copies to the major fishing Website: for advertising rates and information. ports in Massachusetts, and our advertising rates are very reasonable. www.fishermensvoice.com November 2011 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION 23 Events Calendar November 3 November 15-17 Fuel in Fisheries Workshop, 5-7 p.m., Friendship TAA Lobster Market Overview Workshop, 5-8 p.m., New England Fisheries Management Council meet- Town Offi ce. FMI: 772-5356. Ellsworth City Hall Auditorium. RSVP: 967-4555 ing, Newport, RI November 30 November 7 November 16 TAA Developing your Business Plan Workshop, 5-8 Fuel in Fisheries Workshop, 5-7 p.m., Penobscot East DMR Advisory Council 1 p.m., Natural Resources p.m., Gulf of Maine Research Institute, Portland. Resource Center, Stonington. FMI: 772-5356. Service Center, Hallowell. FMI: 624-6553. RSVP: 967-4555 November 6-10 November 17 TAA Marketing and Branding Workshop, 5-8 p.m., ASMFC Annual Meeting, Langham Hotel, Boston. Sea Urchin Zone Council, 5:30 p.m., Department of University of Maine Machias, Science room 102. FMI: 703-842-0740 Transportation building, Bangor. FMI: RSVP: 967-4555 November 8 November 21 Zone C council meeting, 6 p.m., Bucksport Town Of- TAA Alternative Enterprises Workshop, 5-8 p.m., Zone B council meeting, 6 p.m., Mount Desert Island fi ce Council Chambers. University of Maine Machias, Science room 102. High School Library. RSVP: 967-4555 Upcoming November 22 Maine Lobster Promotion Council Board Meeting, 4 TAA Alternative Enterprises Workshop, 5-8 p.m., December 1 p.m., Augusta. FMI: 541-9310 Gulf of Maine Research Institute, Portland. RSVP: Essentials of Exporting, Eastern Maine Development 967-4555 Corporation offi ce, Bangor. FMI: 990-3161. November 9 TAA Alternative Enterprises Workshop, 5-8 p.m., Zone A council meeting, 6 p.m., Washington Acad- December 6 Lincoln Street Center, Rockland. RSVP: 967-4555 emy Library, East Machias. Fuel in Fisheries Workshop, 6-8 p.m., Vinalhaven School. FMI: 772-5356. November 10 November 25 TAA Lobster Market Overview, 5-8 p.m., Gulf of Santa Claus arrives by lobster boat, 12 noon, Rockland Zone D council meeting 6 p.m., Rockland Ferry Ter- Maine Research Institute, Portland. RSVP: 967-4555 public landing. FMI: 593-6093 minal. Zone G council meeting, 7 p.m., Scarborough Mu- November 28 December 8 nicipal Building. Zone E council meeting, 6 p.m., Lincoln County Zone F council meeting, 6 p.m., Yarmouth High Communications Center, Wiscasset. School. November 15 TAA Marketing and Branding Workshop, 5-8 p.m., November 29 Ellsworth Public Library. RSVP: 967-4555 TAA Lobster Market Overview, 5-8 p.m., Lincoln Street Center, Rockland. RSVP: 967-4555. MLA Board of directors meeting, 5 p.m., Belfast. 24 MAINE LOBSTERMEN’S ASSOCIATION November 2011 Photos from the collections of the Penobscot Marine Museum Carroll Alley and Elsa Louise “Carroll Alley of Prospect Harbor, Me., gives his lobster boat an overhaul and paint job. She is 32’ long, 8’ wide and was built by Harvey Church of Steuben, Maine. Alley fi shes 125 traps.” Alley’s boat is about half the width of today’s 800 trap boats, and, of course, scraping and painting in the intertidal zone is no longer permitted. A canvas hood pro- tects the engine. Published in Atlantic Fisherman, November 1954. LB1992.301.192 Rockland seafood businessman Richard Feyler poses for a major article on Rockland’s Seafood Festival. Published in Atlantic Fihserman, July 1959. LB1992.301.307 ) $ # # ' % R $ ( % R % R ! "