In an effort to help Maine aquaculturists during this time, we have created this page to serve as a place for lobstermen and oyster, mussel, and seaweed farmers to access tools and resources to help them address current challenges and impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.
For additional resources and further support for Maine’s small businesses, visit our Small Business Resource Page here.
NOTE: Food processing, fishing, and aquaculture are considered essential services under the executive order and shall continue their activities consistent with guidance on social distancing included in the order.
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act
- Guide to the CARES Act—Includes links and information from the SBA and Department of Treasury
- Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
- Recorded Webinars & Trainings
- Mainebiz: The EIDL Program and Other Grants, Loans, and Credits
- Mainebiz: The Paycheck Protection Program
General Health and Safety Information
- Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention
- CDC FAQs
- National Fisheries Institute—Coronavirus and seafood safety
- National Fisheries Institute—Coronavirus and seafood talking points
- FDA—Food Safety and COVID-19
Maine Department of Marine Resources
- Recent news from DMR
- Resources for Industry and Individuals Regarding COVID-19
- Licensing and Regulations for Selling Shellfish Direct to Consumers
- Maine DMR Seafood Map
Funding and Assistance
- USDA Business and Industry CARES Act Program
- USDA Farm Loan Programs
- Island Institute Small Business Resource Page—Resources for Small Businesses, Artists, and Nonprofits
Resources for Farmers Doing Direct Distribution
Directories
- UMaine Cooperative Extension
- Maine Oyster Company—Maine Oyster Farmer Directory
- Gulf of Maine Research Institute—Maine Fishermen Guide to Direct Sales
- The Briny Babe—Access to Fresh Shellfish in a Time of Global Unrest: A Resource
- Local Catch Network (wild & farmed seafood)
- Maine Magazine local food directory
- Online or local oyster sales—In A Halfshell: National At-Home Delivery Directory; form to submit your name/business here.
FaceBook Pages
- The Maine Seafood Connection
- Maine’s Working Waterfront – Seafood Connect
- Maine Fish Direct
- New England Seafoodies
Additional Resources
- Oyster Tracker.com—Offering 2-month free trial; to participate, all you need is an iPad. They will not take a credit card, but will let you know how much it will cost if you convert in the future. They are only asking farmers to check in with them at least once every couple of weeks and let them know how things are going.