02/03/2025
The Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program is proud to continue its work with the Lobster Trap Recovery & Assessment Partnership (LTRAP), a collective with The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Save the Sound, Project Oceanology, and Remote Ecologist!
The team was awarded $141,249 for the LTRAP, which will be used to remove approximately 1,000 derelict lobster pots from Long Island Sound, continuing efforts that have already removed over 22,000 pots since 2010. This funding will support the Marine Program's work to address the environmental threats posed by abandoned traps, which contribute to marine debris and "ghost fishing," with 20% of recovered traps still containing lobsters. The initiative targets key ports, including Mattituck, Mount Sinai, and Northport, in collaboration with the lobster industry.
Nearly 21,000 derelict traps have been recovered by CCE Suffolk to date, with most recycled or returned to their owners. Burnable waste is converted into renewable energy. CCE Suffolk also engages in educational outreach, partnering with the lobster industry and local officials to promote environmental awareness and best practices for recycling and proper disposal of inactive fishing gear.
A special thank you to the Virginia Institute of Marine Science for their generous funding of this important initiative!
Learn more: https://conta.cc/49Av6qr
