SENATE PASSES HISTORIC ALEWIFE BILL

SENATE PASSES HISTORIC ALEWIFE BILL

Senator Johnson hails unanimous vote

AUGUSTA – This morning the Maine Senate unanimously passed a bill to allow alewives in the St. Croix River for the first time since 1995.

“The restoration of alewives to the St, Croix River will benefit people all over Maine.  Alewives are critical to Maine’s environment and fill an important role as baitfish for the lobster industry,” said Senator Chris Johnson (D-Somerville), the Senate Chair of the Marine Resources Committee. “They also serve as critical prey food for our depleted ground fish stocks.  Getting this bill passed now means that the benefits can begin with this year’s run, and they will grow over time. The additional alewives will make a real difference to our struggling ground fish and lobster industries.”

The bill was unanimously endorsed by the Marine Resources Committee, and passed the House by a vote of 123-24.  It now goes to the Governor’s desk for his signature.