HALLOWELL, Maine (AP) -- Maine's new marine resources commissioner is vowing to grow the economic value of the state's commercial fishing industry and the coastal communities that rely on the ocean.
The value of the state's seafood harvest can top $400 million a year and contributes three or four times that much in economic activity to Maine.
Patrick Keliher, who was sworn in late last month as the department's new commissioner, thinks those numbers can be increased. While protecting the fisheries resources is the top priority, Keliher says the department can do more to promote seafood and give fishermen flexibility so they can maximize the value of their catch.
He says the fishing industry's value to the state overall is priceless, with coastal fishing villages serving as tourist draws while adding to Maine's mystique.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)