WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King are today celebrating “National Lobster Day” and the contributions of Maine’s iconic, sustainable lobster industry. The Senate unanimously passed the Senators’ bipartisan resolution earlier this year designating the day and recognizing the economic and cultural importance of this crustacean species, which is a major economic driver for Maine. Senators Collins and King have sponsored similar legislation every year since 2015.

“Lobster is an inseparable part of Maine’s history, heritage, and identity. This signature industry is a cornerstone of our economy, plays a central role in our coastal communities, represents us around the globe – and is woven into the fabric of our state,” said Senators Collins and King. “National Lobster Day is a chance to recognize the thousands of Maine people who power the state’s iconic industry – from the men and women who work on the docks, to those who catch, process, and cook the exceptional crustacean. These hardworking folks are all authors of Maine’s success story and have been responsible stewards of our waters for generations. As lobster and the proud people who rely on it face absurd, unfounded attacks, we hope everyone can join us today and enjoy a delicious, healthy, sustainable Maine lobster.”  

“Lobster is an icon of the state of Maine and an integral part of our state’s culture, traditions, and economy. For the men and women who make their living hauling traps, lobstering is not a job, it’s a way of life. The future of our coastal communities depends on the continued success of the Maine lobster fishery, and MLA applauds Senators Collins and King for introducing this resolution that recognizes the vital importance of preserving Maine’s lobstering heritage,” said Patrice McCarron, executive director of the Maine Lobstermen’s Association.

“This National Lobster Day, we want people to know they can feel good about eating Maine Lobster and supporting the small business owners who make up the fishery,” said Marianne LaCroix, Executive Director of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative. “Maine’s economy relies on a thriving lobster industry, and we want do our part to educate consumers everywhere on the legacy of lobsters, unique ways to enjoy the product, and how sustainability drives everything the fishery does, and has done for generations.”

“Maine Lobstermen are incredibly proud that we’ve maintained a sustainable fishery for generations. We take a lot of pride in doing things the right way – from practices to preserve the lobster stock, to protecting marine life,” said Steve Train, a lobsterman from Long Island, ME. “National Lobster Day is a chance for more people locally and around the country to enjoy Maine Lobster, and celebrate the independent lobstermen who are working hard to carry on a heritage industry that supports Maine island and coastal communities.”

Lobster is the single most valuable fishery in the country, and a fundamental economic driver for Maine communities throughout the state. In 2021, Maine lobstermen caught more than 100 million pounds of lobster, worth more than $700 million. Senators Collins and King are vocal advocates for the Maine lobstermen and have been pushing back against activist attacks on the industry.

Click HERE to read the full resolution.