February 9, 2017 — Maine fishing regulators have closed several scallop fishing areas to protect shellfish from over harvest, reports Maine Public.
This comes at a time of high prices for the fishery, with scallops selling at $20 to $25 per pound. In Maine, ex-vessel prices hit record highs in mid-January.
The state Department of Marine Resources says the closures will take place in Casco Bay, Upper Damariscotta River, North Haven and mid-Penobscot Bay as well as the Lower Blue Hill Bay and Jericho Bay area, Chandler Bay and Head Harbor area.