October 21, 2024
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission today voted to delay implementation of Addendum 27. Addendum 27 raises minimum allowable catch size for lobsters. NEFSA COO Dustin Delano issued the following statement:
“We thank the commission for delaying the proposed rule change after consulting with lobstermen and their onshore partners. We hope today’s vote is a first step toward withdrawing Addendum 27 altogether.”
“Sadly, our iconic industry is retracting. Any change to the minimum allowable catch size will expedite our decline. Our small businesses are not viable unless we can harvest and sell our most popular products. Our businesses cumulatively employ thousands of New Englanders, account for billions in economic activity, and support a shrinking tax base in coastal areas. Maritime communities oppose any change to the minimum catch size because our region cannot sustain it.”
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