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Local fishers and Selectmen weigh implications of court ruling and Seafood Watch listing
Summary
Selectmen heard lengthy discussion after a Sept. 8 court ruling and Seafood Watch listing that members said could curtail lobster fishing; town leaders discussed outreach, ropeless gear trials and regional collaboration to respond and raise public awareness.
Stonington officials and fishermen described concerns about recent legal and certification developments they say threaten local lobster fishing and asked the Selectmen to consider coordinated responses.
At the Sept. 12 meeting TM Billings recounted the Sept. 8 court ruling that Selectmen said favored restrictions and could move the industry closer to reduced fishing opportunities. Local fishermen and officials discussed the Seafood Watch listing and possible management responses, including area closures, trap reductions and development of ropeless gear. Selectmen discussed outreach to regional collaborators and public‑relations steps to bring attention to what speakers described as a threat to the local fishery.
Selectmen heard from Travis Fifield and others about industry efforts to explore ropeless gear to comply with conservation goals while preserving fishing access. TM Billings said she would pursue outreach to collaborators and look for grant or partnership opportunities to support adaptation and PR. No formal town action or funding was committed during the meetings documented in the minutes.
Next steps: Selectmen asked staff to continue outreach to industry groups and to report back on potential partnerships, technology trials and advocacy strategies.
