Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries is a non-profit organization that works to secure a diversified fishing future for the communities of Eastern Maine and beyond. We do this by developing and implementing innovative programs that provide value for today’s fishermen and drive more sustainable management approaches for future fisheries. An essential component of our work is connecting the knowledge of fishermen, the findings of scientists, and the world of policy makers.

Fish Forever - Our Challenge, Our Opportunity

A Beacon of Success in Maine, a Model for Places Beyond

Eastern Maine is a place where fishing can be sustained, forever. Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries was founded in 2003 on the principle that the only way the resources of the oceans will be protected and sustained is through joint stakeholder stewardship: collective action of fishermen and their communities, supported by science and working in combination with regulatory authorities at all levels.

EM3C

A project with Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries, NOAA Fisheries, and the Maine Department of Marine Resources to develop a research framework that supports ecosystem-based fisheries management.

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River Herring (Alewives)

Alewives are a critical prey species to spur the recovery of groundfish species like cod & haddock while also providing commercial lobster bait and food for human consumption.

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Groundfish Restoration

To restore the cod, haddock, pollock, and flounder fishery as a pillar of Maine’s coastal economy will take science, policy innovation, advocacy and vision.

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Scallops

The successful Maine scallop co-management system is a demonstration of what is possible if fishermen and regulators work together to restore and manage a fishery.

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