October 8, 2013
The PEIFA have been receiving calls from fishers reporting that the biodegradable cotton twine has been breaking/disintegrating in the lobster traps in the LFA 25 lobster fishing season. Some fishers have had to replace the majority of the twine on their traps, costing additional time and money and in some cases hiring of additional crew to assist. In mid-September, the PEIFA notified DFO Gulf Region Resource Management as well as local C&P Fisheries Officers of the situation. We will continue to discuss the issue with your local lobster advisory representatives and they’ve provided additional details on this year’s experience with the twine for their particular harbour.
We want to thank all those who’ve brought this important issue to our attention. We will be working with your local Lobster Advisory representatives this fall/winter to have this issue addressed properly.