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 Membership

Major 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 lobstermen have trusted the MLA for over 65 years. Shouldn’t you?

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.

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Industry Information for Fishermen

Check out our blog! These public posts share important updates and links to research, projects and more. While a search button is not yet available, you can click a category (on the far right of a post) to see all the posts in that category.

 READ NOTICES FOR LOBSTERMEN