Bill > LD1026

This bill amends the duties of the Maine Office of Community Affairs by adding a new responsibility to create and provide a specialized mapping template and technical assistance specifically focused on aquaculture lease siting. The bill expands the office's existing roles of providing technical support to municipalities, tribal governments, and regional councils by introducing a targeted mapping service to help these local entities proactively identify and map areas of concern related to potential aquaculture leases. Aquaculture, which involves farming aquatic organisms like fish, shellfish, or seaweed, often requires careful planning to balance environmental, economic, and community interests. By requiring the Office of Community Affairs to develop this mapping resource, the bill aims to support more informed and strategic decision-making about potential aquaculture sites, helping local governments better understand and manage potential lease locations in their jurisdictions. The bill modifies existing statutes by adding this new mapping provision to the office's list of administrative responsibilities, building upon its current mandate to provide planning and development assistance.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1026&snum=132