Introduction
Removed from the elements of urban society, coastal Maine communities began providing sanctuary to tourists beginning in the mid-19th century (Woodward, 2004, p.180). These visitors, otherwise known as the “rusticators”, quickly transformed working waterfront into impressive hotels and summer “cottages” (Woodworth, 2004, p. 181). Today, Maine communities continue to thrive seasonally as individuals seek out the same natural beauty and culinary experiences. Although local opinions’ vary in regard to the overall benefits of tourism, from a historically perspective it has had a surprising effect on what is now known as Maine’s strongest fishing industry; lobstering.
Prior to the development of Maine’s coastal tourism industry…show more content… Locally, these individuals are otherwise known as the “sternmen”, and are the crew members on a lobstering boat. The number of sternmen is typically dictated by the size and productivity of a vessel, with crews ranging from one to three sternmen in size. Sternmen responsibilities range between boats, but usually include baiting traps, measuring/banding lobsters, performing maintance on the vessel and gear, and assisting in the sale of the product. Because each boat is an individually operating business the sternmen are employed and paid directly by the owner/captain. It is uncommon for the sternmen to own a share in the business or hold a lobstering license, however, they are usually paid a significant percentage of the weekly yielded net income. It is important to emphasize that unlike most entry level positions, sternmen are not paid an hourly rate, providing them with a greater incentive for the business to…show more content… What are the demographics for the typical sternman?
What percentage of sternmen in Hancock and Washington counties are able to obtain year-round financial stability solely in this role?
What additional skills in the fishing, agricultural, and manual trade industries do sternmen perceive to be most valuable in order obtain year-round financially stability?
What role do schools play in providing training opportunities for skills relating to the fishing, agricultural, and manual trade industries, as perceived by current sternmen?
Significance
As previously stated, the 2008 and 2012 economic crises demonstrated the lobstermen financial resiliance, however, it is unknown it the same level of success was obtained by their employees (Henry & Johnson, 2015, p.40). Due to the potential for future declines, it will be valuable to gain a better understanding of the level of financial dependence Maine’s sternmen have on the lobstering indursty. This data will provide insight on sternmen’s potential need for future part and full time employment opportunties, and/or state
