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The Island Institute has just released A Climate of Change, a preliminary assessment of fishermen's observations on a dynamic fishery. It details a collaborative effort by scientists and lobstermen in the Gulf of Maine to compare ocean temperature, salinity, storms, and other climate factors in relation to trends in the fishery such as the timing of the shed, seasonal movement, landings, habitat, larval settlement and other factors affecting the health of the fishery. Concerns are also raised about the impact of climate change on acidification, primary productivity such as phytoplankton blooms, and freshwater runoff.
Through surveys, roundtable discussions and interviews, each lobsterman served as a "citizen scientist," bringing a wealth of local knowledge and historical data. Part of a multi-year study, these initial findings will, when combined with ongoing research on global warming, acidification of our planet's waters, and the potential impact of sea-level rise, provide a clearer picture and a more accurate timeline to inform our understanding of climate change and its impact on Maine's signature fishery. Please click on the link below to learn more about the report.