Fishermen Feeding Mainers: A Lifeline for Maine's Fishing Fleet and Food Banks
Since late 2020, the Maine Coast Fishermen's Association has operated Fishermen Feeding Mainers, a program that buys locally caught groundfish at auction when prices dip too low. The fish is processed into frozen fillets and donated to schools and food banks.
The program has spent over $4 million on purchasing and processing about 1.3 million pounds of fish, donating more than 1.8 million meals.
Stabilizing a Volatile Industry
The program mitigates the impact of volatile fish prices on Maine's groundfishing industry, which has declined due to overfishing, warming waters, high operating costs, and federal catch quotas. The number of fishing boats landing in Portland has fallen from over 300 in the 1990s to around 20 currently.
How It Works
Funded by private donations, grants, and state and federal funding, the program began with a $374,000 anonymous foundation donation. It supports fishermen by ensuring a minimum price, supports processors, and reduces food insecurity.
Impact on Schools
Participating schools, such as Westbrook High School, report serving fish more often. The Gulf of Maine Research Institute provides training for school kitchen staff on handling raw fish and develops classroom curricula. Some schools have started purchasing fish from local distributors through the association.
Fisherman's Perspective
Fisherman Devyn Campbell stated that before the program, prices could be "scary-low" and noted it has improved the financial picture for local fishermen.