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Lost, discarded and abandoned fishing gear causes environmental problems—degrading marineecosystems, trapping marine species, damaging active fishing boats and gear. The National Sea
Grant Law Center, which Stephanie Otts directs, is researching
derelict gear with a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant. Gear removal
laws vary by state and fishery, which complicates interstate
cooperation. Otts’s center is analyzing the legal framework and
removal programs. “This research raises awareness of legal barriers
and helps New England marine-debris managers implement innovative
fishing gear-removal programs,” she says. “This will facilitate gear
removal from the ocean, reducing the environmental impact.”