February 19, 2025 — The following was released by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission:
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s American Lobster Management Board will meet via webinar on March 18, 2025 from 3 – 4 PM. The purpose of the webinar is for the Board to consider approval of Draft Addendum XXXII for public comment. The Draft Addendum will consider repealing all Addendum XXVII measures pertaining to gauge and escape vent size limits. This action responds to industry concerns regarding the potential economic impacts of an increase to the minimum gauge size in the Gulf of Maine and uncertainty surrounding trade issues with Canada. In addition, the Gulf of Maine states have agreed to work with the lobster industry to develop management strategies to ensure the long-term health of the resource and the coastal communities that it supports.