the threat is real.
Burdensome federal regulations threaten to end Maine's lobster industry. In 2021, the National Marine Fisheries Service released a ten-year whale plan that requires the Maine lobster fishery to reduce its already minimal risk to the endangered North Atlantic right whale by 98-percent. This is an unachievable goal and the industry could not survive. The MLA is suing the federal government to stop this plan, and is asking the court to fix it using accurate science so that we can save right whales without sacrificing the lobster fishery and Maine's lobstering heritage. Learn more by visiting www.savemainelobstermen.org.
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The Maine Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) advocates for a sustainable lobster resource and the fishermen and communities that depend on it.The MLA was founded in 1954 and is currently the oldest and largest fishing industry association on the east coast. Representing 1,200 members, the MLA works to sustain both the industry and the resource. The MLA strives to be proactive on issues affecting the lobster industry and is active in the management process at the state, regional and federal levels. For more than 60 years, the MLA has provided a credible voice for the industry on important issues and is highly regarded by both the fishing industry and the management community. The Benefits of MembershipMajor issues including drastic changes to the Whale Rules and the implementation of offshore wind farms are looming over Maine’s lobster fishery. The MLA remains your advocate, the one with experience, knowledge, and the determination to protect this industry. We are the organization that will speak up against unfair regulations and advocate on your behalf. Many Join today and share your commitment to protecting Maine’s lobster fishery. MLA has been and will continue to work diligently, day by day, month by month, to fight for what we believe in – our fishermen, the sustainable wild-caught food they provide, the jobs and economic stability they create for our rural coastal communities, and the continued opportunity for our children to live and work in Maine. Whether you are a commercial harvester, a business which serves the lobstering community, or just someone passionate about the coast of Maine and it's iconic catch, your member support matters. Join TodayIndustry Information for Fishermen
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lobstermen have trusted the MLA for over 65 years. Shouldn’t you?
Safety & Survival Training and Drill Conductor Certification:
Jonesport (May 22-23) and Boothbay Harbor (May 24-25)
Safety & Survival Training - This training is designed for all fishermen, including crewmen, to learn or hone fundamental safety and survival skills. Through hands-on training, fishermen learn about EPIRBs, Signal Flares, MAYDAY Calls, Man Overboard Recovery, Firefighting, Flooding & Damage Control, Dewatering Pumps, Immersion Suits, PFDs, and Life Rafts. For interested fishermen, this is the first day of the 2-day AMSEA Drill Conductor Certification. This training is FREE to Maine Lobstermen and is conducted in partnership with the Maine Lobstermen’s Association.
Drill Conductor Certification - Dig deeper into what you learned in the Safety & Survival Class including new information on cold-water survival, helicopter rescues, stability, liability and emergency procedures. Then apply your knowledge and skills to your own fishing vessel. Working with our USCG-Certified Marine Safety Instructors, you will create an emergency station bill and learn how to lead monthly, on-vessel safety drills. By practicing your emergency response together as a team, you and your crew are ensuring you understand your responsibilities, retain your knowledge, and build your muscle memory in a way that has proven to save lives. Fishermen that complete these two days of training are AMSEA certified Drill Conductors, which meets USCG requirements under 46 CFR 28.270(c). This training is FREE to Maine Lobstermen and is conducted in partnership with the Maine Lobstermen’s Association.
Register by email [email protected] or phone 978-282-4847.