Maine Lobster Population Declines Sharply in Midcoast Region
What happened
A study by researchers from the University of Maine and the Maine Department of Marine Resources found substantial declines in the Midcoast lobster population of Maine. The research showed that an 80% decline in baby lobsters sampled between 2010 and 2022 preceded declines in larger populations. Specifically, young lobsters have decreased by 70% since 2015, and adults large enough for fishermen to catch have decreased by 50%.
From bangordailynews.com
Why it matters
The findings indicate that the Gulf of Maine's lobster population has declined since the mid-2010s. This decline raises questions about the future of a fishery that generated more than $461 million in Maine landings in 2025.
From bangordailynews.com
Who's involved
- University of MaineCollaborated with the Maine Department of Marine Resources on the lobster population study.
- Maine Department of Marine ResourcesCollaborated with the University of Maine on the lobster population study.
- Waldo CountyA county in the midcoast region where the steepest population declines were recorded.
- BrunswickA town located in the midcoast region covered by the study.
- MaineThe state where the lobster fishery and the study took place.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- BrunswickSpeculative
Brunswick might face reduced revenue from the core fishery economy.
Possible ripples
Who this could reach next, traced step by step from the reporting. Possibilities worth considering, not forecasts.Keep exploring
The entities involved
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University of Maine
public research university in Orono, Maine, USA
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Maine Department of Marine Resources
government organization in Boothbay Harbor, United States