After years of researching the problem, biologist Vince Guillory helped establish the Louisiana Derelict Crab Trap Removal Program in 2004. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries makes recommendations for removal sites, scheduling, and crab trap disposal. The result? Thousands of traps extracted and countless living things potentially saved. “It’s difficult to put numbers on it, but considering the number of traps we have cleaned up [so far], and the research done—the impact is substantial,” Vince says.

Most neglected traps result from buoy-line deterioration, unintentional abandonment (due to weather), and currents. During the past two years, at least 10,000 traps have been collected in Louisiana alone. Armed with grappling hooks, volunteers tackle designated areas from early morning until dusk. Vince says groups of 100 or more may gather depending on the weather and location. And it’s no surprise that those who love the water are the first to help.

“Most of our volunteers are fishermen,” says Vince. “The program has really brought recreational and commercial fishermen together. On some issues, recreational fishermen and commercial fishermen may be opposed, but during this project they work together.” The Louisiana commercial fishing industry added a $5 fee per license to support crab trap removal. That way, the program eventually will be funded entirely by fishermen.

Vince believes the true essence of the program is to promote preservation and respect for Gulf waters. “It’s about increasing awareness of the environment—and I think we have,” he says.

Due to the active 2005 hurricane season, future removal dates are to be determined. For information, visit derelictcrabtrap.net.