PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • November 29, 2022
In an apparent attempt to shame Maine lobster fishermen into giving up their livelihoods, a corporate giant – Whole Foods – has suspended the sale of Maine lobsters, saying right whales get caught in the trap lines. As right whales are endangered, lobstering – they say – must stop. This is the wrong answer. Environmental regulation has its place to preserve sustainable stock and protect endangered species, but reason is essential. Attempting to shame lobstermen and cut off their income is just dumb. It attacks one of the hardest working industries, puts whales over people, and will not work. Lobsters will continue to be caught and sold to those who understand life’s balance. Time for big companies and government to think with the people, not against them.