North End Lobster Co-op, Westport

When a former boatyard on Westport Island (Lincoln County) went on the market in 2002, resident lobstermen were afraid that it might be sold for a private residency and forever be lost for access to the Sheepscot River lobster fishery. Twenty one members formed a Co-op and through the support of a local bank, Coastal Enterprises Inc., and Farm Credit of Maine, they purchased the 3.75 acre parcel that has a deepwater wharf on 450 feet of frontage. With a boat travel lift transferred from the boatyard business, members unload catch, haul their boats, and launch their floats seasonally in a manner unlike any other fishing wharf in Maine. Over 40 families in the town and surrounding areas are supported by the fishing access from this property. For the sale of the covenant to the state worth $135,250.00, the Co-op will make physical improvements to the shorefront and pay down debt on their mortgage.

North End Lobster Co-op, Westport

North End Lobster Co-op, Westport

North End Lobster Co-op, Westport