US removed 14,000 traps, 600,000 pounds; 11 projects target 15,450 more
A US-led cleanup program has successfully removed 14,000 derelict fishing traps, known as ghost gear, which continue to trap marine life long after being lost. The initiative is now expanding with 11 new projects aimed at removing an additional 15,450 traps to protect marine ecosystems and support coastal jobs.
Why it matters
Ghost gear is a significant source of marine pollution that causes indiscriminate wildlife mortality and damages underwater habitats, threatening both biodiversity and commercial fisheries.
Lost fishing gear can continue trapping animals long after it disappears beneath the water. A nationwide US cleanup programme has now removed more than 14,000 derelict fishing traps weighing almost 600,000 pounds in only two years, while documenting nearly 36,000 animals caught in what are often called “ghost traps.” The programme, led by William & Mary’s Virginia Institute of Marine Science and Batten School through NOAA funding, is expanding again. According to W&M News, 11 new projects in seven states will receive approximately $1.24 million and are expected to remove another 15,450 traps while creating or sustaining 128 jobs. The work is aimed not only at clearing marine debris, but also at protecting fisheries, reducing bycatch, supporting coastal workers and collecting evidence that can prevent fishing gear from becoming lost in the first place.The hidden danger beneath the waterFishing traps are designed to catch animals.
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