Indefinite Closure of a Historic Industry
The indefinite closure of New England’s shrimp fishery, a decision made last week by fishery regulators, marks a continued pause for an industry that has been dormant since 2013. The fishery, predominantly based in Maine, was known for its small, pink shrimp, a winter delicacy once popular across New England and the country. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s decision to extend the moratorium without a set end date, while keeping the option to reconsider if shrimp populations improve, reflects a cautious approach in fisheries management.
The Decline of Cold Water-Loving Shrimp
The moratorium, primarily attributed to environmental conditions deemed unfavorable for cold-water shrimp, remains a point of contention. Mike Armstrong, an environmental analyst on the panel, expressed skepticism about the fishery’s revival due to rising water temperatures in the Gulf of Maine. This body of water, essential to U.S. commercial fishing for species like scallops and lobsters, has been a focus of scientific study, particularly regarding the impact of warming waters on marine life.
Shrimp Stock Continues to Decline
Chelsea Tuohy, a fishery management plan coordinator for the commission, noted that despite the absence of fishing, shrimp populations continue to decline. This decline is happening in the context of the Gulf of Maine warming more quickly than other ocean areas, a condition that is reportedly unfavorable for shrimp.
A Look at the Fishery’s History
Established in the 1950s, the New England shrimp fishery reached its peak in the late 1960s, with Maine fishermen catching significant amounts as recently as 2011. However, the industry has faced challenges in recent years, with Massachusetts and New Hampshire fishermen also feeling the impact.
Global Context and Industry Responses
New England shrimp were once a small part of the global shrimp industry, which encompasses both wild-caught and farmed species from various regions. The industry’s decline contrasts with Canadian fisheries, which continue to harvest and export the same shrimp species to U.S. markets. This ongoing activity raises questions about the differing impacts of environmental conditions across relatively close geographical areas.
Calls for New Management Approaches
Some U.S. fishermen, like former shrimp trawler Glen Libby, argue for a more nuanced approach. They advocate for additional data collection before making drastic decisions about the future of this historic fishery. The shrimp panel’s vote to explore an industry-based research program reflects this desire for a deeper understanding of the fishery’s current state.
Conclusion: A Need for Balanced Perspectives
The indefinite closure of New England’s shrimp fishery underscores the complexities surrounding marine resource management. While environmental concerns are valid, there is a growing call among industry stakeholders for more comprehensive data and research to inform decisions. This approach seeks to balance environmental considerations with the livelihoods and traditions of fishing communities, ensuring a more holistic view of the situation.
Reimagined By Digi Girl
DISCLAIMER: Author is under many pen names. This article was rewritten based on these links: New England’s shrimp fishery, victim of climate change, to remain closed indefinitely (aol.com)
