Gerry Cushman, a veteran lobster fisherman in Maine, is concerned about the latest challenge facing the lobster industry. Fishing regulators are implementing a new rule that mandates stricter minimum sizes for lobsters that fishermen can harvest. Despite the seemingly small change of just 1/16th of an inch, this adjustment could significantly impact fishermen, particularly amidst existing threats from climate change and regulations aimed at protecting whales.
Interstate fishery regulators argue that the size increase is crucial to safeguard the future of New England’s lobster population as the species migrates towards cooler waters in the north. However, the new rule has sparked tension between fishermen and regulators, raising questions about its potential effects on international trade of lobsters, a prized seafood worldwide.
Fishermen, like Cushman, worry that the size restrictions, scheduled to take effect next summer, could hinder their ability to fish effectively and put them at a disadvantage compared to Canadian counterparts who have less strict regulations. Surveys have indicated a decline in young lobsters off the Maine coast, prompting concerns about future catch levels. Maine’s lobster haul has already decreased, from 132.6 million pounds in 2016 to 93.7 million pounds last year.
The change in minimum size applies to the Gulf of Maine, a critical lobster fishing area. If the young lobster stock in the gulf decreases by 35%, the legal harvesting size for lobsters will be adjusted. Recent data showing a 39% decline in the stock has left both regulators and fishermen surprised and wary about the accuracy of the information.
Despite the opposition from fishermen, some conservationists view the size increase positively, believing it will help prevent overfishing and protect lobster populations, especially in the face of climate change impacting the Gulf of Maine. The changes do not apply to Canada, where the lobster industry is even larger, but Canadian authorities are closely monitoring the situation in the U.S.
The alterations could have significant implications for the lobster industry, with potential impacts on prices and market access. However, some believe these changes are essential for ensuring the long-term health and resilience of lobster stocks. While the debate continues between fishermen and regulators, the future of Maine’s iconic lobster industry remains uncertain.
