Protecting ‘The Yellowstone of the North Atlantic’ – Maine’s Cashes Ledge

Listen to the story HERE. By Kathryn Carley August 20, 2024 Conservation groups across New England are seeking permanent protections for the Cashes Ledge Area in the Gulf of Maine. Often called the ‘Yellowstone of the North Atlantic,’ it contains rare ecological structures, a treasure trove of marine life and one of the deepest cold water kelp forests along the […]

Scientists say a major shift in ocean currents has helped increase the rate of warming in the Gulf of Maine to triple that of the world’s oceans with annual average sea temperature now more than 1.9°F above normal. (Adobe Stock)

Listen to the story HERE.

By Kathryn Carley

August 20, 2024

Conservation groups across New England are seeking permanent protections for the Cashes Ledge Area in the Gulf of Maine.

Often called the ‘Yellowstone of the North Atlantic,’ it contains rare ecological structures, a treasure trove of marine life and one of the deepest cold water kelp forests along the Eastern Seaboard.

Priscilla Brooks, vice president of ocean conservation for the Conservation Law Foundation, said giving the area sanctuary status would allow for needed scientific research in one of the fastest warming bodies of water on the planet.

“Protecting Cashes Ledge is one of the most comprehensive opportunities for biodiversity and climate stewardship in the Gulf of Maine,” Brooks contended.

Hundreds of scientists and ocean advocacy groups have officially requested permanent protections from the Biden administration, the first step in what is expected to be a yearslong process.

Most commercial fishing, including bottom trawlers, is already restricted in the Cashes Ledge Area to help restore depleted groundfish populations, like cod and haddock. But conservation groups said regulatory uncertainty and a change in the White House could undo protections already in place.

Brooks pointed out the economic health of Maine’s coastal communities relies on a healthy ocean ecosystem, adaptable to the growing stress of climate change.

“More diverse ecological communities and healthy communities can provide an insurance policy that ecosystem functionings will be maintained even if some species decline,” Brooks noted.

Brooks emphasized multiple industries, including fishing, aquaculture and tourism have a stake in preserving Cashes Ledge. She added a newly designated sanctuary would also contribute to President Biden’s goal of conserving 30% of America’s lands and waters by 2030 to slow biodiversity loss and build climate resilience.