Coast Guard reopens waters to lobster fishing
 
Congresswoman Chellie Pingree welcomed news that the Coast Guard has rescinded a rule that effectively blocked lobster fishing in the waters around Seal Island.

“I’m pleased that the Coast Guard responded quickly to our questions about their decision to place a safety zone around Seal Island,” Pingree said.  “Safety is everyone’s top concern but the sudden closing of the waters around Seal Island just didn’t make sense to me.”

Tuesday night Coast Guard officials, responding to questions from Congresswoman Pingree, informed her that in light of “unvalidated level of risk to the mariners and a larger than expected economic impact on local fishermen” they have withdrawn a rule that placed waters up to sixty feet deep off Seal Island in a safety zone.  This effectively blocked lobster fishermen from tending traps in this area.  As many as 35 lobstermen fish up to 100 traps each in these waters.  Seal Island is located between Matinicus, Isle au Haut and Vinalhaven.

Pingree’s daughter, Maine House Speaker Hannah Pingree, also worked with the Department of Marine Resources and Coast Guard officials to help resolve the situation quickly.

“I appreciate the Coast Guard’s cooperation and I look forward to working with them and state officials to better assess any potential dangers in the area and to develop plans for any necessary cleanup,” Pingree said.  “Obviously safety should remain everyone’s top priority and if there is debris that needs to be removed I’ll work with federal and local officials to make sure that happens.”