7 Critical Updates From The Maine Department Of Marine Resources (DMR) You Need To Know In 2025
The Department of Marine Resources (DMR) Maine is the crucial regulatory body overseeing the state's multi-billion dollar marine economy, a sector defined by the iconic American lobster and a growing aquaculture industry. As of December 20, 2025, the DMR is navigating a period of significant transition, marked by a change in leadership and a flurry of major regulatory actions impacting everything from the commercial scallop season to emergency rules for Atlantic herring. The DMR's work directly affects the livelihoods of thousands of Maine's fishermen, scientists, and coastal communities.
This article provides an in-depth, up-to-the-minute look at the most critical and recent developments within the Maine DMR, focusing on the fresh regulatory landscape and the key figures driving marine policy in late 2025. Staying informed on these changes is vital for anyone involved in Maine's coastal waters, from commercial fishermen to conservationists.
The New Guard: A Shift in DMR Leadership and Strategic Focus
A major development in 2025 was the transition of leadership at the top of the Department of Marine Resources. This shift signals a new era for marine policy and resource management in the state, bringing a long-time scientist into the Commissioner role. The change in command is a pivotal point for the agency's strategic direction, particularly regarding the state's most valuable fisheries.
Carl Wilson: Maine’s New DMR Commissioner
In a significant appointment, Carl Wilson was sworn in as the Commissioner of the Department of Marine Resources on April 8, 2025, following his unanimous confirmation by the Maine Senate. Wilson replaced the former Commissioner, Patrick Keliher, marking a leadership change under Governor Janet T. Mills’ administration. Wilson is not new to the department; he is a 26-year veteran of the DMR and served as the agency’s long-time lead lobster biologist. His background as a fisheries scientist is expected to heavily influence the DMR's approach to science-based management and conservation efforts, particularly concerning the challenges faced by the American lobster fishery.
The new Commissioner’s tenure begins amidst complex issues, including federal regulations impacting the lobster industry and the ongoing need to balance economic activity with marine ecosystem health. His deep institutional knowledge of the Maine marine fisheries is considered a major asset in navigating these turbulent waters.
2025's Major Regulatory Shifts: Lobster, Scallops, and Herring
The DMR's primary function is to manage and regulate access to Maine's valuable marine resources. In late 2025, the department has been particularly active, issuing critical updates and adopting new rules that directly impact three of the state's most economically and ecologically important species: lobster, scallop, and herring.
1. Emergency Rule for Atlantic Herring (Chapter 36)
One of the most urgent and recent actions taken by the DMR is the issuance of an Emergency Rule-Making Notice for Chapter 36; Atlantic Herring on December 18, 2025. This emergency action was deemed necessary to comply with changes to the interstate management of the Atlantic herring fishery, which is managed by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). The rule specifically concerns the 2025 Season 2 Landing Days. Crucially, the emergency rule designated zero landing days for Atlantic Herring from November 4, 2025, through December 31, 2025. This measure reflects the dynamic nature of fisheries management and the need for rapid response to protect the stock.
2. The 2025-2026 Commercial Scallop Season Regulations
The commercial scallop fishery is a vital winter industry for Maine. The DMR has adopted and announced the proposed regulations for the 2025-2026 Commercial Scallop Season in state waters. Key aspects of the new regulations (Chapter 11) include:
- Specific Zone Openings: Certain areas, such as Penobscot Bay, Blue Hill Bay, and Jerico Bay, have specific season start and end dates.
- Harvesting Restrictions: Scallops cannot be taken at night, defined as between sunset and sunrise.
- Possession Limits: There are strict rules on the amount of shucked scallop meats a vessel can possess or land per day within Maine's territorial waters.
- License Lottery: The winners of the 2025 Maine Scallop License Lottery were announced in October 2025.
3. Ongoing Lobster Fishery Monitoring and Assessment
The American lobster fishery remains the economic backbone of coastal Maine. While no major new state-level regulations have been announced in late 2025, the DMR is heavily focused on data collection and assessment. The 2025 Lobster Industry Survey Results Dashboard was published to inform the DMR’s discussions at the ASMFC regarding the future management of the fishery. Updates on the 2025 Fishermen's Forum DMR Lobster Science Update also provide crucial insights into the health of the stock and the challenges facing the industry, including issues related to federal mandates. The DMR continues to manage the Limited Entry and Apprentice Program for lobster licenses, ensuring controlled access to the valuable resource.
Navigating Maine's Marine Future: From Aquaculture to Conservation
Beyond the major commercial fisheries, the DMR is also responsible for managing emerging industries and critical conservation efforts. These areas represent the future of Maine’s coastal economy and its commitment to environmental stewardship.
4. Extended Closure of the Northern Shrimp Fishery
In a move that highlights the department's commitment to conservation, the Northern Shrimp Section—comprised of members from Maine and other New England states—announced an extended closure of the Maine shrimp fishery for three more years, effective from December 15, 2025. This decision is a direct response to the continued low population levels of the Northern Shrimp stock, prioritizing long-term recovery over short-term commercial gain. This closure is a significant economic and ecological decision by the DMR.
5. Active Aquaculture Leasing and Permitting
Aquaculture, or sea farming, is a rapidly growing sector in Maine, producing oysters, mussels, and kelp. The DMR's Division of Aquaculture is central to this growth, managing the complex process of leasing and licensing new sites. As of August 2025, the DMR continues to maintain a comprehensive inventory of existing and proposed aquaculture leases. Prospective sea farmers must apply through the DMR, which works in conjunction with federal bodies like the Army Corps of Engineers through the Maine Aquaculture Programmatic General Permit (PGP) process. The DMR's active role in streamlining the application process is key to the industry's expansion.
6. Atlantic Menhaden Management for 2025
The Atlantic Menhaden is a crucial forage fish species. The DMR's regulations govern both the commercial and non-commercial Menhaden fisheries. For the 2025 season, the fishery is open from May 1 through November 30. The non-commercial fishery began on May 1, 2025, with separate regulations for Pound Net Operators. The management of Menhaden is a sensitive issue, as the fish is vital for the entire marine food web, including the lobster and groundfish populations.
7. The Role of Public Input and Enforcement
The DMR relies heavily on public engagement and enforcement to carry out its mission. The department frequently posts notices for Proposed Rulemaking and holds public hearings to gather input before adopting new rules. Furthermore, the DMR’s marine patrol plays a critical role in enforcing regulations. Fishermen are encouraged to use the dedicated DMR Reporting Hotline to report violations, underscoring the collaborative effort required to protect Maine’s marine environment. The focus on compliance and robust science ensures that the marine resources are managed for the benefit of current and future generations.
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