NOAA Fisheries has awarded more than $2.3 million to 16 projects under the Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program. We are pleased to announce that seven of the awards are for projects in our region, and total about half of the overall funding.
These awards support key partners in the research and development of innovative approaches and strategies for reducing bycatch, bycatch mortality, and post-release mortality in our nation’s fisheries.
2019 Projects in NE/MA Region
University of Missouri – $195,000
Project: Quantifying and reducing post-release mortality of shortfin mako sharks (Isurus oxyrinchus) captured as bycatch in the Atlantic coast pelagic long-line fisheries.
Gulf of Maine Research Institute – $127,329
Project: Improving the selectivity of the ultra-low opening trawl (ULOT) to reduce bycatch of Atlantic cod.
Maine Department of Marine Resources – $198,018
Project: Assessing the feasibility of Time Tension Line Cutter use in fixed gear fisheries to reduce entanglement risk for the endangered North Atlantic right whale.
Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries – $176,572
Project: Bycatch reduction of red hake in the Southern New England silver hake trawl fishery.
Cornell University – $75,169
Project: Advancing bycatch reduction technology in New England small mesh multispecies fisheries-outreach and technology transfer of the large mesh belly panel..
Sea Mammal Education Learning Technology Society – $225,000
Project: Developing and testing innovative ropeless lobster fishing gear to reduce bycatch of North Atlantic right whales.
New England Aquarium – $125,000
Project: Whale release ropes as a large whale bycatch mitigation option in the lobster fishery.
About the Author
How about limiting the catch of Menhadden Fleet so we can build up the sport fishing in the bay. Why are we supporting Omega Protein who sends their profits to Canada while depleting the fish in and around the Chesapeake Bay?