Groundfish Catch Limits Cut Drastically

Statement

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree released the following statement on decision by fisheries managers tonight to drastically reduce limits for cod and other species in the Gulf of Maine:

There is no question that these catch limits are going to be devastating to fishermen in Maine. This is why a fisheries disaster was declared last year and it just makes it even more outrageous that Congress has refused to approve disaster funding for the fishermen who are being hit hard by these cuts.

The fact that that we have ended up here represents a real failure to adequately manage stocks in the Gulf of Maine. I've heard from fishermen who couldn't catch the quota they had even before these drastic reductions, andthat's a sign that the resource is in very bad shape and we need to do something to protect it.

Fishing is not just an important part of the Maine economy, it's a fundamental part of our culture and our community. I'm committed to finding ways to keep boats on the water and making sure fishing is a viable way to make a living.

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