Maine’s lobstermen caught between climate change and trade wars

Mike Remkiewicz is in a pretty pessimistic mood as he hauls lobster traps onto his boat in Ogunquit, a picturesque town in southern Maine which owes its livelihood to fishing and tourism.

In common with other lobstermen in the town, Mr Remkiewicz, 53, does not see a bright future ahead for the industry which has been synonymous with the state since the mid 19th century.

Last year lobster landings fell from 133 million pounds to 111 million pounds, a drop which has set alarm bells ringing.

“It’s terrible. With everything that’s happening, I  am glad I am not 20 years old any more,” said Mr Remkiewicz.

“I think it’s climate change. We have never had 70 degree (21C) water like we are seeing this…

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