On September 8^th, NOAA announced a scoping period to consider ideas for inclusion in its new rulemaking to achieve a 90% risk reduction in Atlantic coast fixed gear fisheries, including the lobster fishery. The timeline for changes to the fishery has been accelerated due to recent court rulings.

NMFS will hold only ONE online public hearing during the scoping period on September 27 at 4:30pm. Written comments will be accepted until October 11  

This scoping webinar is your ONLY opportunity to communicate directly with NOAA during the development of these measures other than submitting written comment. It is important that you hear directly  from NOAA what a 90% risk reduction would mean for the lobster fishery and share your thoughts with them about how you, your business and your community will be impacted.

The Maine Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) is hosting an in-person live stream of the meeting in Brunwick and Ellsworth so that lobstermen can stand together in solidarity as we learn about this next round of cuts. MLA will collect your questions and comments and provide a microphone should you wish to speak.

The MLA wants to make sure that ALL lobstermen are given the opportunity to learn about what our industry is facing and to speak up about these drastic rule changes which will destroy our fishery.

Of course, you have the option to login to the meeting from home.

You can learn more and register to attend the scoping hearing here: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/event/scoping-meeting-additional-modifications-atlantic-large-whale-take-reduction-plan. Written comments are also being accepted until October 11.

LOCATION & PARKING:

Ellsworth Middle School Cafeteria, 20 Forrest Drive, Ellsworth ME

Parking: approach the school from Pond Avenue, the soft ball field will be on your left. Take first left and then turn left into the parking lot. Access the school/cafeteria from that side of the building.   PLEASE NOTE- arrival time is 4 pm in order to avoid congestion in the school parking lots.