Stonington coordinates regional response to NOAA whale-rule proposal, flags risks to inshore fishing

Stonington's town manager told the Selectmen the town has submitted comments on a proposed NOAA whale-protection rule under a 10-year plan that could require removal of end-lines and meaningfully affect inshore lobster gear.

TM Billings said she circulated an MLA guide and is coordinating with neighboring towns Vinalhaven and North Haven, and with the congressional delegation and Maine Coast Fishermen's Association (MCFA), to compile responses and advocacy. She reminded the board of federal comment deadlines for the Biological Opinion (BiOp) and the 10-year plan and said the town would continue regional coordination.

Selectmen expressed concern about the rule’s potential economic and social impacts on local fishery-dependent communities, and the TM said she would keep the board informed as rulemaking and legal timelines progress.

Next steps: the town will continue to coordinate regional comment efforts and monitor legal developments; the TM will share updates on any organized regional or congressional actions.