Maine’s coastal communities are facing immense pressure from all angles.
The lobstering community is facing an uphill battle with the federal government regarding policy changes to protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale. Working waterfront towns are facing housing crises as a result of ongoing gentrification along the coast. Climate change threatens communities that rely on a healthy ocean to make a living.
To ensure that future generations of Mainers can live and prosper on the water, we must welcome new economic opportunities to our coast.
Maine lobstermen and commercial fishing families have turned to aquaculture to boost revenue and diversify their businesses. According to data from the Department of Marine Resources (DMR), roughly 50 commercial lobster license holders also hold aquaculture leases, meaning that one in every six Maine aquaculturists also captains a lobster boat.
Aquaculture businesses help to strengthen our working waterfronts by providing jobs, supporting local businesses and enhancing Maine’s commercial seafood infrastructure. Aquaculture also contributes to Maine’s renowned seafood brand with a total economic impact of $137 million, according to a 2017 report by researchers at the University of Maine.