APRIL 7, 2017--On March 24-25, Marine Debris Program (MDP) staff participated in a derelict blue crab trap removal event in Spanish Fort, AL.

This was the first of three cleanups that will take place over the next few years as part of the Alabama Volunteer, Derelict Crab Trap Removal Program, which aims to reduce the negative impacts of derelict gear. Despite some challenging weather and tide conditions, 14 volunteers removed and disposed of 84 traps and released 157 live blue crabs back into Mobile Bay. Only one dead blue crab was found and no other bycatch was reported. In addition to removing traps and collecting data, the program will also be providing educational materials to the community about the impacts of derelict gear on the environment. This effort is a partnership between the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program, and the MDP.

For additional information, contact: Caitlin.Wessel@noaa.gov.

Go back to OR&R Weekly Report.