SENATOR SUSAN COLLINS AND FISHING ASSOCIATION LEADERS SURVEY STORM DAMAGE

Senator Susan Collins and fishing association leaders survey storm damage. Senator Susan Collins joined officers of the New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association (NEFSA) and the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association (MCFA) on Saturday Jan. 20 to survey damage to fishing communities following once-in-a-generation winter storms.

Storms that wracked New England’s coast earlier this month featured dangerous tides and waves that damaged boats, wharves, fishing gear, and critical infrastructure. Fishing communities badly need expedited federal disaster relief to recover.

“We’re grateful to Senator Collins for coming to Harpswell to debrief on this serious situation,” said NEFSA CEO Jerry Leeman. “The senator is committed to ensuring prompt delivery of disaster relief. We need and appreciate her advocacy.”

“Our community is resilient,” Leeman added. “We’ll get back up. We always do.”

Strong winds, heavy rain, and record tides ravaged much of the Maine coast on Jan. 10 and again on Jan. 13. While the scope of the damage remains unclear, initial surveys indicate unprecedent harm. Senator Collins and fishing association officers toured businesses, wharves, and coves around Harpswell, Maine to speak with affected fishermen.

NEFSA officers and members also met with Senator Collins in her Washington, D.C. offices on Tuesday Jan. 16. Staff for Sen. Angus King and Reps. Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden were also on hand.