John Cox, is a clam manager in Jonesboro, ME.

Scope and Content Note

John Cox gives his opinion on topics relevant to someone working on flats. He talks about the business acumen that fishermen ought to have, the impact of green crabs, and the opportunities and pitfalls presented by farming. He emphasizes the decline of various fish populations and the negative impact of certain fishing practices. Cox also mentions his observation of the transition from trawling to gillnetting, which he sees as a downfall. He expresses concerns about the lack of checks and balances in the past when there were abundant fish, but now the balance is there, but the fish populations have diminished. Cox also talks about the controversies surrounding mussel dragging, a new industry promoted by the state in the 1970s. Furthermore, Cox highlights his involvement in the development of a 4H clam hatchery in Jonesboro in 1984, which aimed to provide educational opportunities rather than focusing solely on economic feasibility. He discusses how this project led to conversations about the need for a college on the coast that offers hands-on learning opportunities in the water, eventually resulting in the establishment of the Downeast Technical Institute. Cox also talks about his efforts to regulate and manage the clam industry. He explains his approach of turning the responsibility over to the selectmen of the town and establishing a monthly meeting to run the business of clam management. He emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and the need for effective local regulation.