The purpose of this project is specifically focused on the successful removal of derelict fishing gear in sequim & discovery bays while engaging the local community in identification and removal…

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration awarded an $860,000 cooperative agreement to the Innerspace Exploration Team from September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2024 under the Marine Debris Program (CFDA 11.999). The purpose of this project is to successfully remove derelict fishing gear in Sequim and Discovery Bays, Washington while engaging the local community in identification and removal activities and creating sustained education and prevention efforts in the broader community. Key products and services include surveying the bays using sidescan sonar to identify approximately 550 crab pots, followed by experienced diving teams recovering the identified gear. Recovered pots will be documented, sorted by ownership, and returned to proper owners or recycled. A $TBD subaward was provided to Fenn Enterprises, Inc. for surveying, diving, and remotely operated vehicle operations to support gear identification and removal activities. The funding and coordinated efforts aim to reduce marine debris and its impacts in the coastal United States as outlined in the Marine Debris Program.

The purpose of this project is specifically focused on the successful removal of derelict fishing gear in sequim & discovery bays while engaging the local community in identification and removal activities and creating sustained education and prevention activities in the broader community. To accomplish these broad goals the BAY will be surveyed through the use of sidescan sonar, followed by experienced fishing gear recovery divers recovering the identified crab pots. An estimated 550 crab pots will be removed and documented for pot type, depth, state at recovery time, live / dead species, and density. Following recovery, crab pots will be sorted by ownership and returned to the proper owners. Tribal equipment will be returned to the appropriate tribal group and facilitated by the jamestown tribe. Serviceable pots will be returned to service by the receiving group (puget sound anglers or tribe). Non-serviceable pots will be dismantled into their base components and recycled. DU