News

Maine’s lobster haul, value grew last year

Maine’s lobster haul, value grew last year

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


ROCKPORT, Maine (AP) — Maine officials say lobstermen brought more than 119 million pounds (54 million kilograms) of the state’s signature seafood ashore last year, an increase from the previous year.

The state is by far the biggest lobster producer in the United States, and the industry is in the midst of a multiyear boom. However, the catch and its value have fluctuated wildly in recent years.

Officials said Friday the value of the 2018 lobster catch was more than $484 million — and the total value for all Maine seafood was more than $637 million, the second-highest on record.

The 2017 lobster haul was a little less than 111 million pounds (50 million kilograms) and was valued at nearly $434 million. That represented a drop from the previous year.

Preliminary data from 2018 show that trend reversed, for the year at least. The industry’s also contending with Chinese tariffs and warming waters.

Latest Headlines

12 hours ago in Local

Trump Shuts Down Offshore Wind in New England; Nova Scotia Eyes Opportunity

The administration’s freeze on U.S. ocean wind projects could set clean energy back a decade. Nova Scotia’s massive Wind West project hopes to fill the gap and even sell power to the U.S.

12 hours ago in Local

Federal Policy Could Push Hundreds of Mainers Out of Long-Term Housing

HUD plans to cut funding for permanent supportive housing and shift to transitional programs, leaving vulnerable Mainers at risk of homelessness. Advocates warn shelters could be overwhelmed.

13 hours ago in Local

Maine Announces $550K in Grants to Boost Coastal Resilience

The state just announced $550,000 in grants to help communities prepare for future storms and flooding. Towns and regional groups can apply for funding to strengthen infrastructure and plan for climate risks. Applications are due Jan. 5.

13 hours ago in Local

Portland Unveils Maine’s First Electric Boat Charger

Portland just unveiled the state’s first electric boat charger at Wright’s Wharf. The move is part of a push to cut emissions and noise in the marine industry.

13 hours ago in Local

Overdose Deaths Continue to Decline in Maine for Third Year

Overdose deaths have dropped for the third year in a row! Fatal overdoses are down 23% compared to last year, and officials credit naloxone distribution and expanded treatment options. If the trend continues, Maine could see the fewest overdose deaths in six years.