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The Future of New England's Fisheries This summer, we’re taking an in-depth look at the current state and future prospects of New England’s fisheries.Starting Monday, July 8th, we’re spending two weeks delving into these issues. We invite you to share your thoughts, your questions, and your stories.Let us hear from you in our Online Survey, as we identify priorities for the future of the fisheries.

WCAI to Examine Future of New England's Fisheries

Heather Goldstone
/
WCAI

This summer, we’re taking an in-depth look at the current state and future prospects of New England’s fisheries. Here’s why, and what you can do to help.

Fishing has always been an integral part of the way of life in New England. There were fishermen here long before there was a United States. Cod fishing gave the Cape its name, shaped the region’s demographics, and gave birth to the iconic images of working harbors for which New England is famous. Alewives, striped bass, lobsters, oysters, scallops – and countless other species – have all done their part to shape our cuisine, our lifestyle, and our collective identity.

Today, New England’s fisheries are at a crossroads. There are fishermen – indeed, entire fisheries – that are in crisis. Drasticcuts in cod catch limits aimed at ending overfishing also threaten to end many fishermen’s careers and have prompted a federal disaster declaration. Rising water temperatures have crippled the southern New England lobster fishery; managers in multiple states have considered completely closing the fishery for up to five years.

But New England’s fisheries are at a crossroads, not a dead end. There are also fishermen who are finding innovative ways to work with – not against – fishery scientists and even the environmental groups that have traditionally been viewed as enemies. There are fishermen who are diversifying their catches and working to educate consumers and create new markets for the fish they haul in.

Starting Monday, July 8th, we’ll spend two full weeks delving into these issues. At the core of our coverage is a ten-part series we’re calling The Long Haul: The Future of New England’s fisheries. In addition, eight episodes of Living Lab and The Point, as well as our regular weekday commentaries, will all be focused on fisheries. And, of course, we’ll have a few special web-only features. Across the board, we’ll be looking for the people, partnerships, and technologies that are shaping the future of the fishing.

New England’s fishing industries will likely look very different in ten years’ time, and that has ramifications far beyond commercial fishermen and their families. Recreational fishermen, the operators of support businesses, aquaculturists, and those who appreciate working waterfronts or fresh, local seafood – they, you, we are all part of the picture.

So, as we begin our exploration of the future of fishing, we’ll be looking for your input. We invite you to share your thoughts, your questions, and your stories.