With climate change impacting our waters and some key fish populations on the verge of collapse, New England’s fisheries are at a crossroads.
November 19, 2025 (Boston, MA) – The 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed that the government is allowed to require electronic vessel trackers on federally permitted lobster fishing vessels. Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) filed an amicus brief in this case (Thompson v. Wilson), on behalf of itself and Ocean Conservancy, encouraging the court to find in favor of this common-sense policy. This decision is a major step forward for a healthy, well-regulated lobster fishery.
“The First Circuit’s ruling could not be more timely – the latest assessment found that New England’s lobster population has declined,” said CLF Staff Attorney Chloe Fross. “Our fishery managers urgently need reliable and detailed data to respond to the complex issues facing our ocean.”
With climate change impacting our waters and some key fish populations on the verge of collapse, New England’s fisheries are at a crossroads. It’s more important than ever that the government enforces the rules to manage fishing successfully and equitably. Strong, effective management of the lobster fishery isn’t possible without comprehensive and accurate data.
CLF has long fought to improve fisheries management in New England, and we’ll continue to do so until New England’s ocean, fisheries, and marine life can all thrive.
CLF experts are available for further comment.
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