The Healey-Driscoll administration is funneling nearly $1.2 million into the Massachusetts commercial fishing sector, as per a recent announcement. This funding, drawn from the Massachusetts Fisheries Innovation Fund, aims to elevate the industry's competitiveness, especially in regions affected by offshore wind farm developments.
Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper articulated the goal succinctly, "Investing in the strength and resilience of our commercial fishing industry is crucial to sustain our local economies and coastal culture," according to a statement obtained by Mass.gov. The Innovation Fund will be distributed across various sectors, $700,000 will be directed towards fishing innovation projects, with an additional $450,000 earmarked for community resilience programs, and $60,000 dedicated to fund safety initiatives, with roughly $375,000 acting as sub-contracts within the commercial fishing industry.
The awardees span a range of initiatives from UMass Dartmouth's development of novel lighted fish pots to the Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation's exploration of mechanical squid jigging. In particular, the New Bedford Port Authority is set to receive $250,000 to amplify New Bedford's seafood marketability, and Eating with the Ecosystem Inc. will use their $156,533 portion to enhance public awareness around sustainable seafood via events and video content.
State Senator Julian Cyr underscored the personal and community significance of the industry stating, "The commercial fishing industry isn’t just an economic engine for Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket—it’s part of who we are," as mentioned on mass.gov. Cyr's reflections mirror the Administration's intent to foster an environment where the heritage and practice of fishing can coexist with renewable energy ventures. Safety concerns are also being addressed, with $60,768 allocated to the Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation to develop safer trawl gear configurations near offshore wind cables.
As these funds reach the beneficiaries, local leaders have voiced solid support for the initiative. State Representative Antonio F.D. Cabral praised the direct investment in practical solutions for fishermen, emphasizing the fusion of innovation, tradition, and resilience through this funding. State Representative Chris Hendricks highlighted the timely nature of the support given the evolving challenges faced by New Bedford's fishing fleet.
