Colleagues: Today may be the day that we have feared since the beginning of the Trump administration. To the best of our knowledge, Trump is going to sign a proclamation rolling back protections for the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts marine national monument today.
Resources:
More to come on social, and tracking media and statements.
What we know about the proclamation:
- President Trump is traveling to Maine today with Sec. Bernhardt to meet with fishermen and sign a proclamation (and visit a medical supply factory).
- The proclamation is likely to allow all fishing back in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts and remove the phase out of the lobster and red crab fisheries.
- We have also heard rumors, less substantiated, that actions would allow fishing in all marine monuments. This may be in the works, but our best information suggests this may be for a later date.
- Saving Seafood put out an email this morning: U.S. Regional Councils Call for Removal of Fishing Restrictions in Marine National Monuments.
- In a letter to Secretary Ross on May 29, the Council Coordination Committee recommends that fishery decisions should be made by the councils.
What we know about the roundtable:
- President Trump is visiting Maine today to host a roundtable with fishermen on implementation of his recent Seafood Executive Order and make an announcement on marine monuments.
- He is going to Maine, supposedly to help Maine fishermen who are “devastated” by Obama’s monument declaration.
- Governor Mills opposed his visit earlier this week and put out a statement calling on Trump to address the impact of harmful federal trade policy and pledge support for greater federal financial assistance.
- Protests are being planned for the president’s visit in Bangor and Guilford.
What you can consider doing to help:
- Assign staff to work on this issue today
- Recruit spokespeople, gather quotes, and collect cell phone numbers to give to reporters
- Reach out to Hill offices to oppose Trump’s action
We will continue to provide updates throughout the day.
Best, Amy
Amy Kenney
National Ocean Protection Coalition