Where was the State Representative?

Maine's Department of Marine Resources held a public hearing in Machias Wednesday for rule-making proposals on the scallop resource. More than 100 fishermen turned out -- and not a single one went on the record for favoring the plan for reduced days (52 between December and March), daily possession limit (200 pounds of scallop meats), and closed areas.

Many voiced how the rules would limit their already-hurting livelihoods. They said if left to themselves, the fishermen would respect the resource and conservation measures would take place naturally, in the cycles of the sea. Truly, the rules the DMR seeks to impose would force fishermen on to the water in bad weather and compromise their safety, all because they would feel pressed to earn their money on the designated days (Mon, Tues, Wed and Saturday) -- which actually conflict with the designated days for urchins.

"When you're on your own, fighting with the ocean in winter, it's not pretty," one Machiasport man said.

They also asked what they can do about changing back the 4-inch ring to the 3-1/2-inch ring in their drags, now a new statute. "Talk to your Representative," was the hearing officer's response. Ian Emery of Cutler is the current Representative -- but he is giving up his seat (that's why I am running). He wasn't at last night's meeting -- even though he's in office through Nov. 30.

If I am elected Nov. 4, I know exactly what I am going to work on, starting Nov. 5. Last night's meeting was fascinating, how these regulations would impact tens of dozens of families' livelihoods along the coast, if imposed.