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Poll results

Sponsored by: OTELCO

Policymakers are in a quandary: How to protect a marine species found in Maine waters while protecting one of Maine's most cherished marine livelihoods.

A new federal rule designed to protect the North American right whale from fishing gear has pitted some conservation advocates against the lobstering industry. Last week, Gov. Janet Mills complained to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo that the rule targets Maine lobstermen unfairly and unnecessarily.

The rule requires new marking and modifications for lobster gear, as well as a seasonal lobstering ban in some offshore waters. Critics say the costs of implementation and revenue loss associated with the rule could total over $30 million next year.

Debate over the measures has been waged for months. But with the rule set to take effect in May, the urgency appears to be ratcheting up.

Does the federal government's new whale-protection rule unfairly target Maine lobstermen?
Yes (76%, 171 VOTES)
No (24%, 53 VOTES)
Poll Description

Sponsored by: OTELCO

Policymakers are in a quandary: How to protect a marine species found in Maine waters while protecting one of Maine's most cherished marine livelihoods.

A new federal rule designed to protect the North American right whale from fishing gear has pitted some conservation advocates against the lobstering industry. Last week, Gov. Janet Mills complained to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo that the rule targets Maine lobstermen unfairly and unnecessarily.

The rule requires new marking and modifications for lobster gear, as well as a seasonal lobstering ban in some offshore waters. Critics say the costs of implementation and revenue loss associated with the rule could total over $30 million next year.

Debate over the measures has been waged for months. But with the rule set to take effect in May, the urgency appears to be ratcheting up.

  • 224 Votes
  • 11 Comments
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11 Comments

  • September 27, 2021

    No one is being "targeted". One side is concerned about whales and the other is concerned about their livelihood.