February 16, 2022 — The Port of New Bedford has the honor of being the most valuable commercial fishing port in the nation, and the hub of commercial fishing in the Northeast, but the city has no local voice representing it on the New England Fisheries Management Council.
The last New Bedford voice on the council was John Quinn, who left in 2021 and was replaced by Michael Pierdinock of Plymouth.
Eric Hansen is looking to be the New Bedford voice on the council.
“We’re the largest valued fishing port in the nation and to not have a voice on the council is just wrong,” Hansen said.
Hansen has been a scallop fisherman, like his father and grandfather before him, for 44 years. He doesn’t go to sea anymore but his scallop vessel F/V Endeavor does and these days his son is at the wheel, serving as captain.
Hansen said it’s important to have someone who has been an actual fisherman serve on the council.
“I’m very thankful for the letters of support and humbled,” Hansen said regarding the letter of support to Gov. Charlie Baker from Mitchell.
In his letter to the governor, Mitchell said Hansen, “has an extensive history as a leader in New Bedford’s fishing community and has dedicated himself to the work of ensuring successful, sustainable fisheries.”
Read the full story at the New Bedford Standard-Times