Lobster boats at Dennis Point Wharf in West Pubnico on November 29,2020.
Local fish harvesters stand to benefit from a recent joint funding announcement from the federal and provincial governments.
The Atlantic Fisheries Fund will see $45 million will be distributed to 11 projects, including three locally.
Nearly 6.2 million will be distributed by Brazil Rock 33/34 Lobster Association toward lobster quality enhancement projects, including live wells and deck boxes.
Project Manager for Brazil Rock 33/34 Lobster Association Dan Fleck says harvesters can apply right through September 2023.
“It’s a 75/25 percent project,” he explained. “Brazil Rock will cover 75% of the equiment, up to a maximum of $45,000 per vessel.”
Fleck notes that getting the ball rolling on an application is as easy as reaching out.
“The easiest way to participate is to contact the Brazil Rock 33/34 Lobster Association at brazilrock3334@gmail.com.”
He notes that innovations like live wells were conceived right here in Southwest Nova, and the goal is always about maintaining the highest quality product.
“With the onset of COVID-19, it became apparent that lobsters might be held for a greater amount of time due to markets being shut down, or transportation and shipping not being available,” he explained. “So things that are available are the items used to run the live wells – aeration and water. For smaller boats, deck boxes are available that also have a dedicated water pump supply.”
Meantime, Scotia Harvest in Digby will receive 3.75 million for a new groundfish processing facility.
Just over 3 million dollars is earmarked for the Coldwater Lobster Association, also toward lobster quality enhancement projects.
