North Carolina removed 4 to 7 tons of abandoned crab pots from coastal waters; fishermen recycled the metal into 700 feet of new oyster-reef structure

Abandoned fishing traps contribute significantly to the deaths of marine life, notably in Chesapeake Bay. A North Carolina initiative creatively transformed derelict traps into new oyster reefs, helping local ecosystems. The project, which included voluntary efforts from fishermen and students, removed several tons of ghost gear. The restoration aims to counteract the long-term decline of oyster populations in many regions.