The first workshops for Maine lobstermen participating in the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program begins soon at three locations: the closest to Lincoln County is in Union, Wed., May 18, 1-4 p.m.
The workshops will focus on business models for working lobstermen, business planning, alternative occupations, and marketing and branding techniques.
Lecturers include Dana Morse, University of Maine Sea Grant; John Sauve, Food and Wellness Group; and Aaron Fuchs, Island Institute. All of the Intensive Workshops are now available online; scheduling for in-person workshops is in progress.
“These workshops are the first step in the 12-hour training requirement for lobstermen participating in the TAA program,” said Annie Tselikis, coordinator of the program for the Maine Lobstermen’s Association. “We have designed them to be practical and painless for attendees.”
TAA participants need to check local weekly papers for additional listings of in-person trainings as the workshop schedule continues to evolve. Participants may take their workshops online, attend in person, or do both in order to meet their 12-hour time requirement.
On Tues., May 17 is the “Trade Adjustment Assistance Training (Lobster) Alternative Enterprises Workshop,” from 5-8 p.m., in the Harrison Middle School Cafeteria, 220 McCartney St., Yarmouth.
On Wed., May 18, there are two workshops at the Thompson Community Center, 51 South Union Rd., Union. First, from 1-4 p.m. is the Trade Adjustment Assistance Training (Lobster) Business Planning Workshop,” and then from 5-8 p.m. is the TAA Business Models Workshop.”
On Thurs., May 19, the TAA workshop features a Lobster Market Overview, from 1-4 p.m. at the American Legion Post 207, 163 Bar Harbor Rd., Trenton.
RSVPs are strongly suggested. Call 967-4555 or email lobsterrsvp@gmail.com to RSVP. Additional information is at www.taaforfarmers.org and www.mainelobstermen.org. If it is a bad weather day and you have not registered, call ahead – availability is limited.
