On May 15, members of the Boothbay Region Maritime Foundation received their permit for minor revision from the Department of Environmental Protection. This followed receipt of Army Corps minor revision permits in January of 2023. Local permits were signed on May 16. The Carter’s Wharf project was fully permitted in January of 2021 but due to budget constraints, the scope of the project was reduced. Permits include reconstruction of the seawall, a 28-foot x 64-foot buying station, a 10-foot x 20-foot dock shed, a fuel tank on the pier, and a series of finger floats.

An engineering study completed in February of 2019 concluded that the pier and building were “severely deficient.” The study further noted, “Since the building floor appears to be integral with the pier platform, it is similarly impractical to attempt to keep the building, which would also likely need substantial upgrade separate from, and in addition to, the first floor deficiencies.” Small repairs were made over the last three years to keep the pier operational as long as possible but the Board believes that for the safety of the tenant, the fishermen and the general public it was time for the pier to be removed. We regret that this will temporarily displace the fishermen and buying station operations and have worked to help Luke’s Lobster make alternate arrangements.

Demolition was completed in April but work could not move forward until permits were received. We continue to work towards completion of the pier and follow all town and state rules and regulations. Funds are still needed to rebuild the buying station (Phase 2) and the marina (Phase 3). Please help to preserve our working waterfront by donating online or sending donations to: P.O. Box 285, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538.

BRMF is a 501 (c)3 organization. Donations are tax deductible. For additional information, please visit the Boothbay Region Maritime Foundation website at https://www.boothbayregionmaritimefoundation.org/home. Send your questions or suggestions directed to BRMaritimeFoundation@gmail.com.