Behind on your lobster landings reports? This pizza party can help.
Volunteers who will help with lobster landings reports are, from left, Rose Eaton, Stacey Roberts, Grace Upham and Morgan Witham. Photo courtesy of Morgan Witham.
By staff
STONINGTON–Lobstermen who are behind on their 2025 landings reports can get caught up with free confidential advice on Dec. 3 at the Island Connectivity Hub. Pizza and kids activities will be provided at the event.
“Behind on your DMR LEEDS or Federal VESL reporting? You're not alone! According to staff at the Maine Department of Marine Resources, there are roughly 4,000 harvesters out of compliance for state fisheries that require reporting, and that could mean just one day or multiple months of reports due before the end of the year,” a press release from the Island Connectivity Hub says.
The Island Connectivity Hub in Stonington welcomes harvesters–or those who compile the state and federal landings reports–“for a relaxed, community gathering designed specifically for fishing families who need support” completing the paperwork, according to the release.
“Our knowledgeable team will be on hand to guide you through the process, answer questions, and help you tackle that backlog – no judgment, just neighbors helping neighbors,” the release says.
DMR staff will be available online if there are questions that can’t be answered by on-hand volunteers.
The event will take place on Dec. 3 from 3-6 p.m. at the Island Connectivity Hub at 43 School Street in Stonington.
Pizza from Stonecutter’s restaurant will be provided free to all participants.
“You’ll just have a good crew on hand and some tasty snacks to make this annoying task a little easier,” the press release says. “While you're catching up on paperwork, connect with business and workforce navigation resources, learn about available support services, and enjoy refreshments with fellow harvesters. Whether you need tech help, have questions about the systems, or just work better with some group motivation, we're here to make reporting less of a headache.”
Participants are encouraged but not required to bring their login info, reporting devices, and dealer slips.
The event is made possible through a partnership among various organizations, including the town of Stonington, the Island Institute, the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety, the Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries, and Deer Isle Adult and Community Education.
For further information email info@islandconnectivityhub.org or call Deer Isle Adult and Community Education at (207) 656-6262.
The Island Connectivity Hub is a regional, collaborative initiative with a variety of programs and services offered by area community organizations aimed to equip people with digital access, education opportunities, career development and healthcare. Housed in the former Stonington Schoolhouse, the Hub is owned and operated as a small business center by the town of Stonington.
