The University of Maine is conducting research to document how lobstermen have been impacted by the new federal whale rules. Researchers are holding a series of focus groups with lobstermen to learn how your fishing business has been impacted by the LMA 1 Seasonal closure, trawling up, weak points and new gear marking. The research team would greatly appreciate the opportunity to learn from you and the experiences you’ve encountered through the implementation of these federal regulations.

•              Focus groups will be held via Zoom with 6 to 8 participants. Meetings will include lobstermen, Maine DMR and UMaine researchers.
•              Focus groups will be held on the following dates: Mon 7/11, Tues 7/12, Wed 7/13, Sun 7/17, Thurs 7/21, Fri 7/22. Lobstermen can choose the date that works best.
•              The meeting will be a facilitated open discussion and will not last longer than 90 minutes.
•              Participants will receive a $25 digital Amazon gift card (valued at $25) for taking part in a focus group discussion.
•              You must be 18 years or older to participate.

If you are interested in participating in the focus group discussion, please fill out this Google form. Please include your email, availability and lobster zone.

If you have questions about the project or need assistance filling out the online form, please call (207)-370-0644 and a research team member can help you. Questions? Contact Joelle Kilchenmann at [email protected].