A five year review of this industry indicates an average loss of five Maine and New Hampshire fishermen each year. A new focus of fishing industry involvement in safety efforts is being undertaken in Year 2001. Safety partnerships with state agencies is also being pursued with the fishing industry. The annual statistics reflect significant growth in deep draft vessel traffic in Maine and New Hampshire. Crude oil tanker arrivals are up significantly, while cruise ship traffic in Portland and Bar Harbor have also increased.
Forecasts are for continued growth in passenger ship activity in Maine ports.
On behalf of the Port Safety Forum leadership, I wish to thank each member and the port community in general, for committing time and effort to enhance the safety and environmental well-being of Maine and New Hampshire ports, and contributing to the successful movement of commerce. I applaud your innovation and continued efforts to prevent marine accidents through vigilance, risk communication, and cooperation. 2000 data is from January to December 8th. All berthing areas a minimum of 1 foot minimum under keel clearance . All berthing areas a minimum of 1 foot minimum under keel clearance .