The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MADMF) is seeking applicants from organizations and municipalities to participate in the DMF Derelict Fishing Gear Removal/Disposal Grant Program. Derelict gear includes fishing gear that is broken, no longer functional, or abandoned. Reducing derelict gear from Massachusetts coasts helps maintain navigable waterways, minimize gear conflicts and ghost fishing, and protects marine mammals and sea turtles from entanglements. This program will also support fishers by providing safe, accessible disposal options for unwanted commercial fishing gear. Senator Tarr secured funding to establish a statewide initiative for the collection and removal of derelict fishing gear, through a budget amendment to Chapter 9 of the Acts of 2025. Awards may be used for a variety of efforts, including but not limited to: • Placing and servicing a designated waste container at a dock or other waterfront location • Hosting targeted shoreline or beach clean-ups • Implementing other locally appropriate methods to collect and dispose of derelict fishing gear
