The workshop was funded and coordinated by the World Animal Protection, Conservation International, Professional Association of Diving Instructors, and the local state resources department, Autoridad de los Recursos Acuáticos de Panamá (ARAP). Over 40 representatives from eight different countries of various backgrounds (federal, state, private sector, and non-governmental organizations) convened in Panama City to dig into the issues, impacts, and solutions to addressing ghost gear.

On day one, participants defined the problem of ghost gear within their countries and identified current solutions. On day two, discussions focused on the technical components of in-water ghost gear removal including: site inspections, gear and training requirements, safety protocols, and comparison of methodologies. The workshop concluded with a hands-on in-water training opportunity led by Conservation International that successfully removed two ghost gillnets from the nearshore waters of Taboga Island.

Following the workshop, World Animal Protection will summarize workshop findings and create a plan to expand the workshop to other countries dealing with the detrimental impacts of ghost gear. “Ghost gear is a global problem that impacts many countries in different ways. Workshops like these help bring awareness to the issue while promoting feasible and achievable solutions as well as building local capacity,” states Manuel.

For more information, please contact Mark.Manuel@noaa.gov.

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