Maine- The Lobster Institute at the University of Maine recently received a 22-foot Boston Whaler, the Shadow, for use as a research vessel. The craft was a gift from Bill and Georgia Fike of Greenwich, Conn. The boat was re-christened as the RV (Research Vessel)Shadow this summer during a special event in Hancock. The R.V. Shadow has been refitted for trap hauling and will be used in various Lobster Institute projects. The R.V. Shadow will be a tremendous boost to the research efforts of the Lobster Institute said Cathy Billings, assistant director for communications and development. “While we always welcome traditional monetary donations, this type of creative gift-giving can also make a major impact on our work for and with the lobster industry. Contributions of goods and services are an excellent way for people to show their support of the Lobster Institute.” The Lobster Institute, a division of the University of Maine’s Agricultural and Forest Experiment Station, has been working with and on behalf of the lobster industry since 1987. It is an industry-driven organization focusing on conservation, outreach, research, and educational program to secure the lobster resource and maintain a vital fishery.