Maine fishermen to benefit from stimulus funds

Associated Press

STONINGTON, Maine - Maine fishermen are getting some financial help to replace their boats' old diesel engines with new ones.

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection says Maine has received $1.7 million in federal stimulus money earmarked for clean energy projects.

Of that amount, $1.2 million will be distributed through the Maine Clean Marine Engine Program. Officials say the money will help the coastal economy and fishing industry while reducing exhaust emissions. The funds will be used to cover some of the costs to replace engines in an estimated 40 vessels, including 30 lobster boats, four groundfishing boats, three ferries and the Sunbeam, a vessel used by the Maine Sea Coast Mission to minister to Maine's island communities.