Governor Mills recognizes responsible aquaculture as an opportunity to create jobs, strengthen the economy and promote Maine seafood

By Sydney Barrett Last updated May 16, 2022

The Governor walks through downtown Bath, stopping at local businesses and encouraging Maine residents to shop locally as part of today’s visit to Sagadahoc County

SAGADAHOC COUNTY – Today, during a roundtable with marine farmers from the New Meadows River Shellfish Co-op, Governor Janet Mills emphasized her government’s commitment to responsible aquaculture as an opportunity to strengthen and diversify Maine’s economy, create good jobs, and provide sustainable, locally farmed seafood.

gov. Mills Shells an Oyster after Aquaculture Talk Table

In support of Maine’s aquaculture sector, the governor noted millions of dollars made to Maine’s marine farmers through the state’s distribution of funds under the CARES Act, the Maine Governor’s Work and Recovery Plan, the Consolidated Resources Act, the recently enacted supplementary budget and provided the Working Waterfront Access Protection Program.

“Aquaculture represents a promising opportunity to create new jobs, strengthen and diversify our economy, and enhance Maine’s reputation as a premier seafood destination,” said Governor Mills. “I’m proud to support Maine’s ocean farmers as they weather the pandemic, and my administration will continue to support the responsible growth of this industry as it creates new jobs and builds on the strong foundation of our ocean economy.”

Aquaculture has grown steadily in Maine in recent years. According to the latest economic impact report, its total value is more than $100 million. Marine farmers apply for use of public waters through the Maine Department of Marine Resource and go through a rigorous permitting process based on state law.

The Governor was joined for the discussion by Representative Jay McCreight (D-Harpswell), Chair of the Legislature’s Marine Resources Committee. The cooperative is comprised of twelve shellfish farmers who operate in the greater waters of the New Meadows River from Small Point Harbor in Phippsburg to Princes Point in Brunswick to bring locally farmed, sustainable oysters and shellfish to the people of Maine.

The Governor also accompanied Senate Majority Leader Eloise Vitelli (D-Arrowsic) on a tour of downtown Bath today, visiting Bath Sweet Shoppe, Union & Co, Now You’re Cooking, Lisa Marie’s Made in Maine Shop and Reny’s . The governor also visited the Bath Recovery Community Center and had lunch at the Kennebec Tavern. After the tour, she expressed optimism for the future and encouraged Maine residents to shop locally.

“Downtown Bath is a beautiful community with great history, great restaurants and exceptional small businesses,” said Governor Mills. “I love this community and Sagadahoc County which has so much to offer our state. I know times can be tough with inflation, but I’m hopeful about the future, and as we head into that long-awaited summer, I encourage the people of Maine to get out and enjoy their communities, shop locally and enjoy their to support local small businesses.”

The governor’s visit to Sagadahoc County comes as she travels across the state to meet with local business and community leaders. Last week the governor visited Piscataquis County.

Earlier in the day, Governor Mills also joined US Senator Angus King and officials from Greater Portland METRO and Biddeford Saco Old Orchard Beach Transit to add four electric buses (two per agency) to their fleets.