Why Join The MLA
Our Mission Statement
The Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association is a member-driven organization that accepts and supports the interdependence of species conservation and the members’ collective economic interests.
Our Goals
To promote conservation in the lobster fishery of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and elsewhere.
To encourage enactment of federal and state legislation for the benefit of the commercial fishing industry of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and of the United States; and to oppose enactment of legislation that is contrary to the interests of the industry or of consumers of fish products.
To encourage and promote efficient and comprehensive law enforcement of marine fisheries laws and regulations.
To encourage sound and economical practices and eliminate unfair and uneconomical practices in the lobster fishery.
To promote the rights and well being of commercial lobster fishermen and their families under state and federal law.
To promote friendship and a spirit of cooperation among and between commercial lobster fishermen and other groups of commercial fishermen for the benefit of the industry.
To sponsor educational programs and/or to conduct various investigations, experiments, tests, studies, ventures and projects, alone or along with others, to increase the knowledge and awareness of its members and others about the industry and its needs.
AS A MLA MEMBER YOU’LL HAVE…..
Representation
Representation at the Federal and State governmental level. A credible and consistent voice in the politics and management of the commercial lobster industry.
Direct Promotional Activities
Direct Promotional Activities designed to educate the general public on all the conservation measures you have implemented as well as to move your product in the marketplace.
Access
Access to the best boat protection program available through MLA’s Non-Profit Boat Protection Cooperative, Ltd..
College Scholarship Awards
College Scholarship Awards each year for children of active members entering their first year of college.
Bi-Monthly Newsletter
A bi-monthly newspaper, which averages 35 pages, filled with news, notices, commentary, ads, and information to keep you on the line and up to date. This newspaper also features the MLA Classified section in which your listing is free as an MLA member.
Website
Where MLA members can place their classified ad for free as well as information on the latest happenings with important links to many other industry and government fishery’s related sites.
Discounts
Discounts for MLA members from many supporting businesses for goods, services, and trade publications you use and need.
Annual Weekend & Industry Trade Show
A free gift for members – a chance to relax, attend industry-related seminars, meet fellow fishermen and just have fun.
MLA Gear
T-shirts, sweatshirts, and more. The MLA also accepts both MasterCard and VISA for the convenience of its members.
HELPFUL LINKS...
State Waters (0-3 miles)
Federal Waters (3-200 miles)
Call Caleb Gilbert, Compliance Liaison, Northeast Division, NOAA Office of Law Enforcement, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Mobile: (978) 675-5062
Lobster Landings Tables