Sen. Chris Johnson (D-Lincoln) has been appointed as one of two members representing the Senate to the Lobster Management Policy Council for the 2013-2014 term.

“I am very pleased to be appointed to the Council,” Johnson said. “This is a good opportunity to communicate with people in the industry and the Department of Marine Resources, and learn more about the issues and challenges facing lobstering. As Chair of the Marine Resources Committee, this is a natural fit.”

Established in 1996, the Lobster Management Policy Council advises the Commissioner of Marine Resources on matters of interest to the lobster industry.  

The council is comprised of seven zones, which are named A through G. Johnson will sit on the Council for Zone E, which is bounded by Small Point on the South to Pemaquid Point on the North. 

Zone E includes the ports of Georgetown and Boothbay Harbor.  Each Zone Council is made up of lobstermen elected by other license holders of their district, and appointed legislative members, such as Johnson, who are non-voting members.

“The lobster industry has been through some very rough times in the last few years,” Johnson added. “I’m glad for the chance to have this role, and do what I can to help.”