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Mission Statement
The Maine Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) advocates for a sustainable lobster resource and the fishermen and communities that depend on it. Core Values Tradition: We take great pride in the long-standing traditions that have laid a solid foundation for our industry. We believe that it is important to honor and understand our history of multi-generational lobstering families, hard work and stewardship as the foundation for the future. Leadership: We understand that the issues we engage in are often controversial and that lobstermen rarely agree on a single position. We respect those who have the courage to pursue the goal of ensuring a sustainable resource and an economically viable fishery. Fairness: We believe that it is important to fully consider all sides of every issue and maintain an open mind before taking action. We must endeavor to understand complex issues through research and education, and use consensus to decide if advocacy is appropriate. Collaboration: We understand the lobster fishery is a large and complex industry whose needs cannot be met through any single organization. We believe it is important to reach out to others with similar goals in working for the betterment and success of the Maine lobster industry. Vision The MLA strives to be valued by all Maine lobstermen for working tirelessly to maintain a sustainable lobster resource and an economically viable fishery. Goals Goal 1: Create a Blueprint for the Future Develop a plan to ensure the long-term sustainability of the lobster resource and the economic viability of the lobster industry. Rationale: Without a sustainable resource, the lobster fishery cannot thrive. Lobstermen must be able to continue to fish and operate profitably in order for the lobster industry to serve as the economic backbone of Maine’s islands and other coastal communities. A flourishing lobster industry requires sound management decisions based on credible biological, economic and ecosystem data. Goal 2: Implement an Education and Outreach Plan Strengthen MLA’s role as a conduit of information to lobstermen and the general public about issues affecting the lobster industry. Rationale: It is essential that all members of the lobster industry, politicians, government officials, the conservation community, and the general public understand the long-standing history and tradition of the lobster industry as well as current pressing issues affecting the industry. If there is not a common understanding of challenges and their impacts, meaningful solutions will be difficult to implement. Goal 3: Reorganize the MLA Rethink the MLA’s organizational and governance structures to deal more effectively with the complex contemporary environment. Rationale: The lobster industry has undergone significant changes since the MLA was formed in 1954. In order to thrive as an organization and deliver quality services to the industry, the MLA should reorganize to become more strategic, efficient and effective. |
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