Fishing Gear Research
CCS scientists and their colleagues are working with local fishermen to design modifications to fishing gear in order to reduce catches of unwanted species (bycatch) and to study the effects of different types of fishing gear on marine habitats.
Underwater imagery is a crucial component of this research, allowing fishermen and scientists to learn and solve problems together.
Left: fishermen and scientists attach an underwater video camera to the tow wire of a sea scallop dredge; Right: real-time video feeds from a modified sea scallop dredge on the seafloor
This research is conducted in collaboration with a variety of other agencies, including the Massachusetts Divison of Marine Fisheries Conservation Engineering program. Current projects are supported by the NOAA Saltonstall-Kennedy Program and the National Park Service.
