The Dilemma of Derelict Gear

• DOI: 10.1038/srep19671
• Publication Date: 2016-01-21T11:28:49Z
• Authors: A. M. Scheld; D. M. Bilkovic; K. J. Havens
• Keywords: Callinectes; Biota

Abstract Every year, millions of pots and traps are lost in crustacean fisheries around the world. Derelict fishing gear has been found to produce several harmful environmental ecological effects, however socioeconomic consequences have investigated less frequently. We analyze economic effects a substantial derelict pot removal program largest estuary United States, Chesapeake Bay. By combining spatially resolved data on removals with commercial blue crab ( Callinectes sapidus ) harvests effort, we show that removing 34,408 led significant gains efficiency an additional 13,504 MT harvest valued at US $21.3 million—a 27% increase above which would occurred without removals. Model results extended global analysis where it is seen $831 million landings could be recovered annually by than 10% from major fisheries. An unfortunate common pool externality, degradation marine environments detrimental not only organisms biota, but also those individuals communities whose livelihoods culture depend profitable sustainable resource use.