Prince Edward Island lobstermen received recognition as the Fall lobster season got underway in Lobster Fishing Area (LFA) 25.
“I want to wish all fishers in LFA 25 a safe and prosperous fall fishing season in the Northumberland Strait,” said Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Alan McIsaac. “The last number of years Prince Edward Island has recorded strong landings and shore prices and it is my hope that we will see continued success throughout this year’s fall fishery.”
The fishing industry is an extremely important contributor to Prince Edward Island’s economy. In 2015, the spring and fall lobster fishery reached a combined landed value of $150 million – the highest landed value on record.
The Government of Prince Edward Island supports the lobster industry thru several initiatives:
This year government supported an increase in cold storage and live lobster holding capacity in P.E.I., an increase in processing capacity with the addition of Montague Bay Seafoods, as well as issued additional buyers licenses.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries continues to support Island fishers through the popular and effective Low Interest Loan Program.
The department collaborates with industry through the Lobster Resource Monitoring Program – a unique, science-based program that allows the lobster industry to monitor the lobster stock.
The PEI Government also assisted the P.E.I. fishery in their achievement to obtain certification through the Marine Stewardship Council.
A renewed three-year commitment by the provincial government for the Future Fisher Program will provide financial support and mentorship to those entering the industry for the first time.
The PEI Government supports local lobster marketing efforts. Recent initiatives include Love our Lobster, Best of Sea, Seafood night at the Races, attending the Boston Seafood Show, and others.
source: Prince Edward Island Department of Agriculture and Fisheries