Steven Burns

Steven Burns Image
Location of Interview
Collection Name

Voices of the Maine Fishermen’s Forum 2019

Description

Voices of the Maine Fishermen’s Forum 2019 is a project of Maine Sea Grant, The First Coast, College of the Atlantic, and the Island Institute, with support from the Maine Fishermen’s Forum Board of Directors.

Date of Interview
02-28-2019
Transcribers

Giulia Cardoso

Principal Investigator
Audio
Transcript
Biographical Sketch

Steven Burns is an experienced lobster fisherman from Bar Harbor, Maine. With a lifelong dedication to his craft, he has been actively involved in the industry since the age of 12. Steven's passion for the ocean, commitment to sustainable practices, and desire to pass on his knowledge to future generations make him a respected figure in the lobster fishing community.

Scope and Content Note

Steven Burns shares his memories of eventful days on the water, the lessons he learned from his mentor as a young fisherman, and reflections on the changes in technology that he has observed in his over 40 years of fishing experience. He talks about his family's connection to fishing, with his father transitioning to the construction industry while he pursued his passion for fishing. He expresses his fondness for the ocean and how it captivates him, especially on calm and beautiful days. Steven also mentions his dedication to teaching younger generations and passing on his knowledge of lobster fishing. He emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts and sustainable practices in the industry, highlighting the need for younger fishermen to respect established territories and regulations. Steven also talks about concerns for the future of the lobster fishery, particularly regarding bait availability and governmental regulations, which he feels have not adequately represented the interests of commercial fishermen.


Please Note: The oral histories in this collection are protected by copyright and have been created for educational, research and personal use as described by the Fair Use Doctrine in the U.S. Copyright law. Please reach out  Voices@noaa.gov to let us know how these interviews are being used in your research, project, exhibit, etc.  The Voices staff can help provide other useful resources related to your inquiry. 

The NOAA mission is to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts, to share that knowledge and information with others, and to conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. The Voices Oral History Archives offers public access to a wide range of accounts, including historical materials that are products of their particular times, and may contain offensive language or negative stereotypes.

Voices Oral History Archives does not verify the accuracy of materials submitted to us. The opinions expressed in the interviews are those of the interviewee only. The interviews here have been made available to the public only after the interviewer has confirmed that they have obtained consent.