Derelict Trap Retrieval and Debris removal program

1. Derelict Trap Retrieval and Debris removal program

The Trap Retrieval Program was originally established in 1985 to remove traps, primarily in the Florida Keys, that were left in the water at the end of each fishing season and to hinder illegal fishing activities. Issues and concerns about the cumulative effect lost or abandoned traps and debris may have on important fishery habitat and species populations (any species that could access the traps) have led to the expansion of the trap retrieval program. With prior Commission approval and adhering to guidelines within Commission Rule 68B-55.003, interested groups may retrieve trap debris or derelict traps (during open or closed season) at any time deemed appropriate by the Commission. Without proper Commission authorization, penalties may apply for tampering with traps that do not belong to you.
Pursuant to Commission Rule 68B-55.003, Florida Administrative Code,
tampering with someone's trap (or contents) that does not belong to you
is a 3rd degree felony and could result in the permanent revocation of
fishing privileges and a $5,000 civil penalty. The derelict trap
removal Rule has been established in order to protect everyone's best
interest.

Pursuant to Commission Rule 68B-55.003 (Page 353) (1) the retrieval of derelict traps/trap debris is permitted by Commission employees or authorized groups. There are not provisions that would allow an individual to retrieve derelict traps/debris. You may receive Commission approval for a cleanup effort by submitting a cleanup plan to the contact address below. Your cleanup plan must include the criteria established in Rule 68B-55.003. As defined in Rule, you will be required to collect trap data, disable traps, destroy buoys and dispose of traps at a landfill. However, if the cleanup effort is as a result of a hurricane, the trap owner has ten calendar days after notification from FWC office to claim these traps. Therefore, they must be placed in a secured area until the trap owner responds or the 10 day hold expires. After ten days, then the cleanup team will disable traps, destroy buoys and dispose of traps at a landfill.

If the traps are not claimed from a Commission authorized storage area, your authorized cleanup group will be required to dispose of the traps at a landfill facility and submit proof of such disposal. You will need to identify your secured storage facility and possible destruction method as part of your retrieval plan. If you have further questions, please contact my office and I will be happy to assist with a proposed plan. No funding is provided by FWC for cleanup efforts. All expenses incurred during a Commission approved cleanup event are the sole responsibility of the cleanup group or their sponsors.
For information on a past Tampa Bay cleanup effort you may visit: http://www.baysoundings.com/fall04/traps.html

2. Closed Season Trap Retrieval Program

Contact Information:
FL Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
Marine Fisheries Management Section
Telephone Number: (850) 922-4340
Fax Number: (850) 922-0463
Email address: marine@myfwc.com

Mailing Address:
620 S. Meridian Street
Box MF-MFS
Tallahassee, FL 32399

Physical Address:
2590 Executive Center Circle, E.
Berkley Bldg, Suite 203
Tallahassee, FL 32301

Trap Retrieval and Debris Removal Program