Town manager mobilizes comments on NOAA whale-rule changes that could affect lobster fishery

Stonington’s town manager reported outreach and comment activity after federal proposals to change whale‑protection rules that could affect inshore lobster gear.

Town Manager Billings told Selectmen she had reviewed guidance circulated by the Maine Lobstermen’s Association and submitted comments to NOAA; she said she was working with neighboring town managers (Vinalhaven and North Haven), with Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries (MCCF) contacts and with the congressional delegation on coordinated responses. The proposed federal plan would reduce or phase out some end lines over 10 years, a change the minutes record as raising concerns about the inshore lobster fishery’s operations and economic impacts.

Why it matters: TM Billings said BiOp comment deadlines and the 10‑year plan comment period required near‑term action (BiOp comments due Feb. 24; 10‑year plan comments due March 1 in the timeline cited in the minutes). The town manager described outreach to other towns to share resources and amplify local input.

Next steps: the town planned to continue coordinating with neighboring towns and regional fishery organizations and to keep the Selectmen informed of any federal responses or legal developments. The minutes do not record any Selectmen vote to adopt a formal municipal position beyond the town manager’s outreach activities.