An escalation of trap cutting incidents in recent weeks along the line that separates Maine's lobster zones B and C (Blue Hill Bay and East Penobscot Bay) has prompted a $15,000 reward from Operation Game Thief for information that will help Marine Patrol in its investigation.

"This has been going on since early summer but in recent weeks we have received numerous reports of traps being cut along the B/C line, and the possibility of these incidents continuing to escalate has prompted me to approve additional Marine Patrol assets including overtime and vessels to support investigations into these incidents," said Maine Department of Marine Resources Commissioner Patrick Keliher, in a news release.

"While these incidents are territorial disputes among a few harvesters, I will take whatever action is necessary to bring a stop to these violations, including closing the area associated with these incidents," said Keliher. "I don't want to take an action that could potentially penalize law abiding harvesters, but I am committed to preventing this from escalating even further."

"This trap war is without a doubt the most costly loss of gear I have witnessed in my 32 year career with the Maine Marine Patrol," stated Colonel Jon Cornish. "In this instance gear loss is estimated to far exceed $350,000 dollars. Trap molesting is a serious offence with the potential for multiple year license suspensions. We are working hard to investigate these incidents and are grateful for the support of the Operation Game Thief program.

Lobster Zone B extends from Schoodic Point to Newbury Neck while Zone C stretches from Newbury Neck to Cape Rosier.

"Maine's lobster industry has a long-standing commitment to responsible harvesting practices and the marine resource laws that ensure opportunity for so many in Maine," said Operation Game Thief Board Chairman Greg Sirpis. "So when the actions of a few threaten the livelihood of those fishing within the law, the OGT Board of Directors will step up. The Maine OGT Board of Directors hopes this significant reward will prompt someone to come forward with information that will bring these violators to justice."

This investigation is on-going. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Operation Game Thief Hotline at 1-800-253-7887 (1-800-ALERT-US); out of state callers dial 1-207-287-6057. Information can also be provided through the OGT online Tip Reporting Form at http://www.maineogt.org/report.php. Information provided by phone or the Tip Reporting Form can be provided anonymously.