January 24, 2022 — Lobstermen will have to start using weakened rope or special inserts to weaken existing rope beginning in May in some waters to help protect critically endangered North Atlantic right whales.
But the rope and links aren’t yet readily available, causing consternation among lobstermen seeking to comply with the rules.
The Maine Department of Marine Resources has received numerous complaints that there isn’t a sufficient supply of approved ropes or the plastic links, a spokesperson told the Bangor Daily News.
The department plans to notify federal regulators of the problem so they’re aware of the potential compliance challenges.
Read the full story from the Associated Press at the Portland Press Herald