AUGUSTA (AP) – Gov. John Baldacci’s office said Wednesday federal officials had reconsidered the imposition of temporary restrictions on equipment used by Maine lobstermen in Washington County.

The governor’s office said federal officials decided to forgo the imposition of the temporary restrictions after conducting a flyover to determine if right whales were in Maine waters and finding no evidence of whales in the area.

“I am pleased that the state and the federal government, including our congressional delegation, have been able to work cooperatively on this serious issue impacting Maine lobstermen,” Baldacci said in a statement.

“While the short-term situation is resolved, this latest issue has highlighted the difficulties facing our lobster industry as final rules regarding fishing lines are imposed next year. I continue to be concerned about the impact to this community.”

A ban on floating rope has been eyed as a way to protect whales from getting entangled in fishing gear.

AP-ES-10-17-07 1726EDT