Maine Fisherman Stand Up!
Last week, Maine’s fishermen faced devastating damage from consecutive storms. The destruction has prompted fishing communities to consider better preparedness for future challenges. Coastal property owners witnessed extreme winds and storm surges that flooded buildings and destroyed docks. Some are already planning to rebuild with more robust and elevated piers. However, the timeline and costs remain uncertain.
Jeff Nichols, spokesperson for the Maine Department of Marine Resources, stated, “A lot of docks and wharves took a real beating.” In response, affected areas were assessed from Maine Forest Service helicopters. New Harbor in Bristol saw six docks destroyed during the January 10th storm.
John Williams, a veteran lobsterman in Stonington, experienced minimal damage to his dock on Atlantic Avenue, but his father’s granite pier on Burnt Cove suffered severe flooding and damage. Williams expressed concerns about the impracticality of rebuilding higher, which could hinder lobstermen’s access to their traps.
Greenhead Lobster, a dealer and processor in Stonington, also faced significant damage across multiple locations. The storms swamped their buying wharf and left boat slips and equipment scattered.
As the cleanup and repairs continue, Allison Melvin, a spokesperson for Greenhead Lobster, emphasized the need for broader discussions on resilience. In Milbridge, Chipman’s Wharf was almost destroyed, prompting plans for a higher and more robust pier.
Beal’s Lobster Pier in Southwest Harbor announced a temporary closure for repairs, affecting shipping operations. State emergency management officials are encouraging property owners to report damage to assess the extent of the impact.
Maine’s fishing industry relies on preserving working waterfront access year-round. Dustin Delano, a lobsterman and COO of the New England Fishermen Stewardship Association, highlighted the challenges faced by lobstermen in repairing their gear. Delano and a group of fishermen are heading to Washington to seek federal assistance.
The fishing community faces uncertainty in the wake of these storms, with the hope that assistance and resilient rebuilding will secure their future.
This article was reimagine from: Some Maine fishermen may get higher piers after recent storms (bangordailynews.com)
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