Stonington manager urges comment on NOAA whale-rule proposal affecting lobster gear

Stonington’s town manager told the selectmen she has been coordinating with neighboring towns and fisheries groups to respond to a proposed NOAA rule change that could limit or phase out certain lobster fishing gear.

TM Billings said she had circulated materials produced by the Maine Lobstermen’s Association and other guides to help residents understand the proposed Biological Opinion (BiOp) and the agency’s 10‑year plan to reduce end lines. The manager described outreach to officials in Vinalhaven and North Haven and to groups such as the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association to prepare coordinated comments.

Key federal comment dates were cited: written comments on the BiOp were due Feb. 24 and the public comment period for the 10‑year plan closed March 1. Billings said she had also contacted the congressional delegation to communicate local concerns and planned further coordination given the potential economic and social impact on inshore lobster fisheries.

Selectmen did not take a formal vote to endorse a particular set of comments at these meetings, but TM Billings urged board members and residents to review the materials and contribute to the comment process as individuals or through coordinated town comment letters.

The manager said the town would continue networking with regional partners and provided links and mailing guidance for residents who wished to submit comments to NOAA.