PORTLAND, Maine — For the second year in a row, the Maine Lobster industry will celebrate its positive economic and cultural impact both in Maine and in the U.S. during National Lobster Day on September 25, 2016. Designated through a resolution by Senators Angus King and Susan Collins of Maine, National Lobster Day reinforces the hard work, sustainable practices and passion of Maine's 5,600 independent lobstermen and women.
"The lobster industry is not only an iconic part of Maine's image, but it's also a significant engine in our local economy that supports families up and down our coast," said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. "By designating September 25 as National Lobster Day, the Senate has once again recognized lobster's tremendous value for our communities while honoring the hardworking people in the industry. The thousands of Mainers who haul lobster from our shores, process it and distribute it ensure that this delicious Maine product can be enjoyed across the country and around the world. Lobster is a livelihood and a way of life for many Maine people, and we will always work to make sure this proud industry can continue its positive impact for generations to come."
Last year, the Maine Lobster industry landed more than 120 million pounds for the fourth year in a row thanks to the self-governing, unparalleled sustainable practices that the industry has had in place for 150 years. Landings increase during peak season, typically June through November, allowing for nearly $1 billion in revenue to support citizens throughout Maine, and the tender sweet flavor of Maine Lobster to be shared with diners across the country.
"We are thrilled that the Senate has recognized the Maine Lobster industry by deeming September 25 as National Lobster Day again this year," said Matt Jacobson, the Executive Director of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative (MLMC). "We're excited to have the national spotlight on our industry, especially during peak season, and we thank Senators King and Collins again for their support with this resolution."
To further promote Maine Lobster and its rich heritage, the MLMC focuses on sharing the Maine Lobster story with national media, educating chefs about Maine Lobster's diverse culinary applications to help them reimagine it as a key ingredient and connecting lobster lovers through social and digital platforms. Additionally, this year, the Collaborative released a video series that showcases the uniqueness of Maine Lobster and the industry's impact across Maine.
"Maine Lobster's strong sustainability story, beautiful flavor and versatility make chefs proud to serve it," said Barton Seaver, chef, cookbook author and sustainable seafood expert. "National Lobster Day highlights these great qualities and the many people throughout the industry who bring Maine Lobster to our plates."
About the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative
The Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative (MLMC), founded in 2013, is funded by Maine Lobster harvesters, dealers and processors to grow demand, both for whole live lobster and a variety of value-added products. The MLMC supports that objective by promoting the core values of the Maine Lobster industry, which are sustainability and traceability that's deeply rooted in tradition. Maine Lobster achieved the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification in 2013, allowing Maine Lobster to certify its long-standing sustainable practices. The industry has been self-regulating for more than 150 years.
Source: Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative
