Despite rumors to the contrary, the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) is not closing the state’s lobster fishery.
“I do not have any immediate plans to close any commercial fishery in response to the coronavirus. In particular, it is important to understand that under the existing circumstances, I DO NOT HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO CLOSE THE LOBSTER FISHERY,” Maine DMR Commissioner Patrick Kehiler wrote in a message on the agency’s website.
However, Keliher did say that lobster harvesters should refrain from landing product if there is no market for it. In addition, “Dealers must refrain from buying product for which there is no market in order to minimize loss associated with inventory that cant be sold,” Kehiler wrote.
Harvesters and dealers “must put aside their differences and must actively communicate with each other about the realities of the market,” Kehiler continued. “I can't stress enough that all segments of this industry must cooperate in the short-term. You all have the ability to work to help with solutions in the short-term and this administration will continue to look at other solutions as we move forward.”
While Kehiler is receiving “thoughts and guidance” from all segments of the Maine lobster industry, “many of these recommendations from the industry are in conflict with each other,” he wrote.
“I am currently evaluating the appropriateness of management actions I am authorized to take within our enabling legislation. I am also working directly with the governor's office to fully understand what other authorities may – or may not – exist. I will remain in constant communication with industry as this situation unfolds,” Kehiler noted.
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