The long road to ropeless fishing
Ropeless fishing gear aims to protect the declining North Atlantic right whale population but faces skepticism from fishers due to costs. Collaboration and government support are essential for successful adoption.
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The article discusses the challenges and developments surrounding the adoption of ropeless fishing gear aimed at protecting the endangered North Atlantic right whale population. Over the past decade, the whale population has declined significantly due to entanglement in fishing gear, boat strikes, and climate change, prompting regulatory measures that have adversely affected local fishers' livelihoods. Fishermen like Michael Cowdrey have faced financial hardships due to seasonal closures imposed by NOAA, despite the Atlantic sea bass fishery having no documented whale entanglements. In 2018, graduate student Kim Sawicki proposed testing ropeless gear, which is viewed skeptically by many fishers due to its higher costs and operational challenges. Despite initial distrust, a collaborative pilot project began in 2020, allowing fishers to refine the technology. However, the initiative has faced backlash from other fishing communities, highlighting the ongoing tension between regulatory bodies and fishers. Support from government agencies is deemed essential for the widespread adoption of this technology, as it could help balance the needs of both whale conservation and the fishing industry. The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration among fishers, scientists, and regulators to foster trust and find solutions that benefit both parties.
- Ropeless fishing gear aims to reduce whale entanglements but faces skepticism from fishers.
- The North Atlantic right whale population has declined over 25% in the last decade.
- Fishermen have suffered financially due to regulatory closures, despite low entanglement risks.
- Collaborative projects are essential for refining ropeless gear and gaining regulatory approval.
- Government support is crucial for the adoption of new fishing technologies.
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