Town Manager urges regional coordination as NOAA considers 10‑year whale protections that could affect lobstering

Town Manager TM Billings told Selectmen she has submitted comments to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on a proposed 10‑year plan to reduce fishing end lines and said she is coordinating with neighboring island towns and groups to press concerns about effects on the inshore lobster fishery.

Billings said she circulated a Maine Lobstermen’s Association (MLA) guide summarizing potential local impacts, and that legal-review deadlines were approaching: a Biological Opinion comment deadline and a 10‑year plan comment deadline were imminent (document dates discussed in meetings referenced February comment deadlines). The TM said she had reached out to Vinalhaven and North Haven town managers and planned to work with the Maine Coastal Fisheries Coalition (MCCF) and the Congressional delegation to share resources and submit coordinated input.

Selectmen heard that the rulemaking could have economic and social consequences for lobstermen and shore-side businesses. TM Billings said she was not optimistic about the rule but would continue outreach and coordination.

Next steps: TM will continue to submit comments on behalf of the town, coordinate with neighboring towns and stakeholders, and keep the Selectmen updated on the federal timeline and any legal or administrative responses.