Florida Nonprofit Launches Platform Allowing Anglers to Report Abandoned Crab Traps
The Floridant/10331558

COCOA, Fla. - Floridant -- Florida — Space Coast Water Sweep, a Florida-based nonprofit organization focused on protecting coastal waterways and marine wildlife, has launched a reporting platform designed to help anglers and boaters identify abandoned crab traps and other hazards on the water.

Lost or abandoned crab traps, often referred to as "ghost traps," can continue to capture fish, crabs, and other marine life long after they are no longer actively used. These traps can also damage seagrass habitats and contribute to marine debris.

The Space Coast Water Sweep platform allows anglers and boaters to photograph suspected traps and submit reports that include GPS coordinates. Reports help recovery teams identify areas where traps may need to be inspected or addressed during authorized removal events.

The organization emphasizes that members of the public using the reporting platform are only asked to photograph and report suspected traps. The platform does not authorize anyone to handle or remove traps.

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"Our waterways are shared by anglers, boaters, and commercial fishermen," said Dennis Woytowitz, founder of Space Coast Water Sweep. "This platform simply gives the community a way to report hazards they see on the water so authorized recovery teams can focus their efforts where they are needed."

Trap removals associated with Space Coast Water Sweep are conducted only under appropriate authorization and in accordance with state regulations. Recovery efforts focus strictly on traps identified as derelict, and active commercial fishing gear is not targeted.

The reporting system can also help identify other hazards on the water including large floating debris, marine trash, damaged or abandoned vessels, and injured or deceased wildlife that may require attention.

Space Coast Water Sweep also tracks recovery results including traps removed, wildlife released, and debris recovered from waterways. This data helps demonstrate the environmental impact of volunteer cleanup efforts.

Anglers and boaters interested in learning more or participating in reporting efforts can visit:

http://www.spacecoastwatersweep.com