The Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association was established in 1963 by the fishermen, for the fishermen, and is presently the leading commercial fishing industry association in New England. On behalf of the 1,700 members, the MLA works to maintain both the industry and the resource. The MLA strives to be proactive on issues affecting the lobster industry and is active in the management process at both the state and federal levels. The MLA communicates with its members through a monthly newspaper, email list, Facebook, Twitter and attendance at meetings. For the past 51 years, the MLA has become a trustworthy voice for the industry on important issues, and is looked to by both the fishing industry and the management community.