Skip Maine state header navigation
A Publication Featuring The Information Services Technology of Maine State Government
| Volume V, Issue 9 | September 2002 |
|
|
Maine’s lobster industry is a complex mix of rules and regulations, study and research that overlay the hard work, and persistence of the lobstermen and women. Rules are always changing, and research continues to become more technologically advanced. Lobstermen have learned to accept the advantages technology can provide to their industry and livelihood, and recognize its role in aiding research intended to preserve the stock of marine life.
Have you ever heard of the "Thistle Marine Electronic Logbook" (see www.thistlemarine.com)? The purpose of this device is to gather data from the fisherman, as they fish. According to the Thistle Marine website "Collecting the demographics of the target species in each trap could help the fisherman become more efficient and could help fisheries management personnel make more informed policy decisions." A fisherman who is able to better calculate his chances of a successful haul of shellfish would save time, and effort, while helping support the management of this important resource.
 |
This device combines global positioning systems coordinates with data acquired during the day’s lobster catch. The Department of Marine Resources received funding to purchase a number of units which they distributed to lobstermen at no charge. The fishermen provide the data on where the lobsters are when they trap them, and the conditions during the catch. The collection of data in situ provides baseline information to figure out how to best manage this resource. Both state and federal government fish management efforts must work with fishermen to protect lobsters so their population remains stable, unlike other marine species. The simplicity of the logbook device, as well as its affordability is very attractive to users. The information is punched into the keypad to record the exact location of the catch and the number of lobsters caught. The box has a large numerical keyboard in a plastic case which accommodates the hands of the lobsterman in rubber gloves. The lobsterman punches separate buttons for various lobster sizes, noting which are keepers, and those to small to keep. The data is later downloaded and compiled. This two-pronged approach, simultaneously assists 1) lobstermen record catch data, and track where lobsters congregate, thereby boosting their take and 2) researchers pool information regarding where the lobsters move during the seasons. See http://www.maine.gov/dmr/rm/lobster/coll_research_project.htm for more detailed information. |
The identification of lobster trends in size, growth and location is the future of the lobster industry. The Thistle Marine Electronic Logbooks are a new technology, employed to help preserve an old way of life and livelihood.
Susan is the program officer for the Maine Commission for Community Service.
