We advocate for a sustainable lobster resource & the fishermen and communities that depend on it.
The MLA was founded in 1954 and is currently the oldest fishing industry association on the east coast. Representing our members, we work to sustain both the industry and the resource. The MLA strives to be proactive on issues affecting the lobster industry and is active in the management process at the state, regional and federal levels. For 70 years, the MLA has provided a credible voice for the industry on important issues and is highly regarded by both the fishing industry and the management community.
The MLA is a 501 (c)(6) organization and contributions are not deductible for federal income tax
purposes as charitable contributions.
Become a Member Today!
Major issues including drastic changes to the Whale Rules and the
implementation of offshore wind farms are looming over Maine’s lobster
fishery. The MLA remains your strongest advocate, the one with experience,
knowledge, and the determination to protect this industry. We are the
organization that will speak up against unfair regulations and advocate
for YOU.
Many lobstermen have trusted the MLA for almost 70 years.
Shouldn’t you?
Join today and share your commitment to protecting Maine’s lobster fishery.
MLA has been and will continue to work diligently, day by day, month by
month, to fight for what we believe in – our fishermen, the sustainable
wild-caught food they provide, the jobs and economic stability they create
for our rural coastal communities, and the continued opportunity for our
children to live and work in Maine. Whether you are a commercial harvester,
a business which serves the lobstering community, or just someone
passionate about the coast of Maine and it's iconic catch, your member
support matters.
OUR WORK TO PROTECT MAINE'S LOBSTERING HERITAGE CONTINUES...
As a result of the June 2023 Appeals Court ruling, the National Marine Fisheries Service's (NMFS) Biological Opinion and the ten-year whale plan (along with its draconian 98-percent risk reduction), are no longer valid, and a law passed by Congress in December 2022 gives the industry some breathing room. To keep our fishery open, Maine lobstermen must continue to fish under the current whale protection rules. Meantime, NMFS must develop and implement a new Biological Opinion and Final Whale Rule by the end of 2028 without skewing the science against the Maine lobster fishery. Meantime, MLA will need the financial resources required to continue to advocate strongly for a plan that will protect whales without sacrificing the lobster fishery and Maine’s lobstering heritage. Your ongoing support is critical. Please consider donating or hosting a fundraising event.
Want to donate a specific amount?
Enter any denomination in the box then click donate.
Want to donate by mail?
Send check payable to MLA, 2 Storer Street, Suite 203
Kennebunk, ME 04043
Working Waterfront Support Fund
The impact of January's storms on Maine's working waterfront is currently beyond comprehension. The devastation occurred rapidly, yet the reconstruction process will likely span years.
To provide a space for people to donate, Maine Coast Fishermen's Association and in partnership, the Maine Lobstermen's Association, are asking for donations to a specific campaign that will be utilized to provide resources and support to fishing businesses and working waterfronts that suffered damages due to the storms.