Entanglement Fact Sheet
¾ Monofilament is non-biodegradable and can remain intact and
dangerous in the marine environment for over 600 years.
¾ During 2000-2006 over 58 dolphins have been stranded with
monofilament entanglements or fishing hook or lure ingestions.
¾ Between 2000-2006 over 298 sea turtles have been entangled
in fishing line in Florida.
¾ One rescued turtle has been recorded ingesting approximately
590 feet of monofilament.
¾ From 2000-2006, 26 manatees were rescued in Florida due to
monofilament entanglements.
¾ Monofilament caught around the flipper of a marine mammal or
sea turtle can result in the loss of the flipper or death due to
infection, blood loss, and/or a weakened health state, or can lead
to drowning if the line gets caught on the sea floor.
¾ Feeding wild marine mammals is illegal and will encourage them
to approach humans, which increases their risk of becoming
entangled in fishing gear or being injured from a boat collision.
¾ Researchers have documented more than 60 fish species that
have swallowed or become entangled in marine debris.
¾ Thousands of seabirds are rescued annually due to hook and line
entanglements.
¾ Between 1999 and 2000, over 250 seabirds were rescued due
to hook and line entanglements and of those, 92 died.
¾ Floating monofilament can get caught in boat engines resulting
in costly repairs.
¾ When surveyed, boat motor repair services in Northeast Florida
indicated that approximately 25% - 30% of all repairs were
associated with monofilament entanglement on the propeller or
the shaft.
BREVARD COUNTY ANGLERS…
WE NEED YOUR HELP ! ! !
The Brevard County Natural Resources Management Office is conducting a survey to learn about
the practices and opinions of Brevard County anglers regarding monofilament line disposal.
As an angler in Brevard County your opinions and suggestions are very important to us.
* Do you have a few minutes to answer 12 simple questions regarding this important issue?
1) Roughly how often do you fish in Brevard County? (Check only one)
Less than 5 days a month ____________
5-10 days a month ____________
10-20 days a month ____________
More than 20 days a month ____________
2) Please select the activity you enjoy most when you fish in Brevard County. (Select one)
a) Surf casting in the Atlantic Ocean ______
b) Fishing off of a pier or dock into the Atlantic Ocean ______
c) Fishing off of a pier or dock into the Indian River Lagoon ______
d) Fishing off of a causeway or bridge into the Indian River Lagoon ______
e) Fishing in a fresh water lake, river, stream or creek ______
f) Fishing off a boat in the Indian River Lagoon ______
g) Offshore fishing from a boat ______
h) Wading in the Indian River Lagoon ______
i) Other ___________________________________________________________
3) To your knowledge is it possible to recycle monofilament fishing line?
Yes ____________ No ____________ Not Sure ____________
4) Which of the following best describes the way that discarded monofilament line impacts
wildlife including birds, fish, reptiles and mammals. (Check only one)
a) Monofilament line has a positive impact on wildlife _________
b) Monofilament line has no impact on wildlife _________
c) Monofilament line has a negative impact on wildlife _________
5) Please list four types of animal that might be harmed by discarded monofilament.
a)___________________________ b)____________________________
c)___________________________ d)____________________________
6) How much of a hazard does monofilament present to the following? (Circle a number ranking
for each option. A score of 1 means no hazard and a score of 5 means an extreme hazard.)
No Hazard Some Hazard Extreme Hazard
a) Marine mammals (i.e. dolphins) 1 2 3 4 5
b) Sea turtles 1 2 3 4 5
c) Sport fish (i.e. redfish, and snook) 1 2 3 4 5
d) Humans 1 2 3 4 5
e) Boats/engines 1 2 3 4 5
7) Do you currently recycle monofilament line you use and/or find?
Yes ____________ No ____________
8) If you do recycle monofilament, please use the list below to select the locations where you
drop off used line. (Check all that apply)
a) Department Stores (e.g. Wal-Mart, Kmart) _________
b) Bait and Tackle Shops _________
c) Marinas _________
d) I do not currently recycle monofilament _________
e) Other: ___________________________________________
9) Which of the following would make convenient monofilament recycling locations?
(Check all that apply)
a) Fishing Piers _______ c) Bridges _______ e) Beach Accesses _______
b) Boat Ramps _______ d) Tackle Shops _______ f) Other ________________
10) Have you heard of Brevard County's Monofilament Recovery & Recycling Program?
Yes ____________ No ____________ Not Sure ____________
11) In your opinion what impact will recovering and recycling monofilament have on the overall
health of wildlife in Brevard County? (Check only one)
a) It will have a positive impact on overall health ___________
b) It will have no impact on overall health ___________
c) It will have a negative impact on overall health ___________
12) Would you support a program that recovers and recycles discarded monofilament fishing line
throughout the county?
Yes ____________ No ____________ Not Sure ____________
THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE WITH THIS SURVEY!
IF YOU INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING WITH MRRP
PLEASE COMPLETE THE NEXT PAGE
Any information you give us on the form below is confidential and will only be used to send you
information regarding volunteer opportunities or suggestions.
Name: _______________________________________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________________________________
City: ________________________ State: _________ Zip: __________________
Phone number and/or E-mail: ___________________________________________________
We sincerely appreciate your time and your information, and thank you for participating in the
Brevard County Monofilament Recovery & Recycling Project (MRRP).
Please feel free to contact Kit Van Wagner or Leesa Souto of the Brevard County Natural
Resources Management Office at (321) 633-2016 with ideas or questions regarding the project.
Suggestions:
_____________________________________________________________________________
_
______________________________________________________________________________
December 10, 2007
«Company»
«Title» «FirstName» «LastName», «JobTitle»
«Address1»
«City», «State» «PostalCode»
Dear «Title» «LastName»,
Is your organization committed to clean water, beautification of our natural areas, and public safety? If so, you share the
vision of Brevard County Natural Resources Management Office, Keep Brevard Beautiful, the Indian River Lagoon
Program, and ten other partnering organizations involved in the Monofilament Recovery & Recycling Program (MRRP).
Monofilament fishing line lasts up to 600 years in the environment where it entangles and poisons wildlife, reduces the
health of fisheries, and is a hazard to boaters, divers and swimmers. MRRP strives to decrease the hazards caused by
derelict fishing line by heightening public awareness, conducting volunteer cleanup events, and encouraging monofilament
line recycling. MRRP needs your help! In an effort to expand the monofilament-recycling network, sponsorship of
outdoor recycling bins is needed.
As a means to increase awareness and facilitate line recycling, a “Cast Your Line Here” network of indoor and outdoor
recycling bins is being established. Indoor recycling bins constructed of cardboard have been donated by Berkley
Manufacturing’s Pure Fishing Program who also accept the line for recycling and provide shipping materials and labels.
The indoor bins are offered to tackle shops throughout the county for line disposal. Outdoor recycling bins developed
through the program are constructed of six-inch PVC pipe and stand approximately three feet tall. The bins are mounted at
eye-level on a piling or post and may have an accompanying aluminum sign. Initially, thirty-five outdoor recycling bins
have been funded to place at county boat ramps and fishing docks. Expanding the number of outdoor recycling bins will
increase effectiveness and expand the area of program influence. Are the boat ramps and fishing locations in your city
strewn with fishing line? A small contribution and commitment to MRRP may help reduce this mess by encouraging the
proper disposal of line.
Please consider participating in MRRP by sponsoring outdoor bins for your city and coordinating bin emptying. The cost
for each outdoor bin location that includes the recycling bin and an aluminum sign is $55.00. Posts and strapping materials
can also be provided at an additional cost. As a sponsor, you will get the publicity benefits of partnering and the
satisfaction of making a commitment to a beautiful Brevard County.
If you have no funding available to sponsor the program, there are other ways that your organization can participate in
MRRP. One way is to host a “Monofilament Madness” fishing line cleanup event spotlighting a dock, causeway or boat
ramp in your area. Fishing line and tackle can be dangerous to volunteers so every precaution must be considered before
hosting such an event. MRRP hopes to recruit a team of professional divers and boaters to dedicate to cleanup activities.
This aspect of the program is still in development. Another way to participate is by committing staff and volunteers to bin
checking and line recovery. MRRP staff will be happy to conduct educational presentations at your local functions,
festivals and club meetings. Please let us know if you are interested in having us conduct a presentation.
Don’t hesitate to contact me at (321) 749-0783, by E-mail: kvanwag@earthlink.net or contact Leesa Souto at Brevard
County Natural Resources Management Office (321) 633-2016 with questions or suggestions about the Monofilament
Recovery & Recycling Program.
Thank you for your consideration and your commitment to Brevard County quality of life issues.
Sincerely,
Kit Van Wagner
Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program
Project Manager
Cc:
Leesa Souto, Brevard County NRMO
Indoor Bins
Available from Berkley
Pure Fishing by calling
Karen Afinson at (877)
777-3850 ext. 8419.
Outdoor Bins
Florida Programs may receive
outdoor bins by contacting the
FWC Division of Marine
Fisheries Management at (850)
488-6058 or Marine@MyFWC.com
(while supplies last).
Guy Harvey Incentive Poster
Florida’s Indoor Bin Sponsors may
receive a 12” x 18” poster by
contacting the FWC Division of
Marine Fisheries Management at
(850) 488-6058 or
Marine@MyFWC.com.
MRRP T-shirts
T-shirts may be sponsored by
your organization by
contacting Christy Hudak at
(561) 575-5407 ext. 11 of
FWC, FWRI Tequesta.
Outdoor Bin Stickers and Signs
Stickers may be ordered online at www.FishingLineRecycling.org.
What Would You Rather Catch Brochure (Eng/Spn)
and the NOAA Entanglement Brochure
Brochures may be requested online at
www.FishingLineRecycling.org or by contact the FWC
Division of Marine Fisheries Management at
(850) 488-6058 or Marine@MyFWC.com.
MRRP Educational Video (DVD format)
Videos may be obtained from FWC, FWRI
Tequesta by contacting Christy Hudak at
(561) 575-5407 ext. 11.
FLACK/SLACK 2004 Press Release - Final
(Tuesday, 20 July 2004) - Written by Administrator - Last Updated (Monday, 02 August 2004)
Wanted: Lagoon paddlers, motorboats, Scuba and beach walkers
The dolphin, manatee, fish, water birds and sea turtles of the Indian River Lagoon and adjoining ocean need your help to
remove a deadly threat. Fishing line is killing thousands of birds, sea turtles, crustaceans, and marine mammals. Six pack rings, fishing line and strapping bands entangle and kill thousands of marine life yearly. Plastics can last up to six
hundred years in our marine environments! A careless moment by us can impact marine life on Earth through our lifetime
and future generations.
Your help is needed in an effort to remove monofilament fishing line and other debris from the environment on Saturday,
July 24, 2004 and Saturday, August 7. This is an opportunity for us to be good stewards of the Earth and help preserve
the lives of the creatures that share this planet.
The event is called FLAC/SLACK and is an annual coordinated effort to deploy volunteers on beaches, underwater
(SCUBA), in kayaks, canoes and motorized boats. Adventure Kayaks and Kayaks, etc are providing kayaks to people
who wish to spend a few hours helping to preserve our natural and precious marine environments. In addition, private
owners of kayaks, canoes, and small boats are needed for the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge cleanup.
The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) is donating their pontoon boat to deploy shoreline teams onto adjacent
Islands from the ELC, Wabasso Island and the southern section of the reserve. Sebastian Inlet Sail and Power Squadron
is donating a pontoon boat to deploy divers into Sebastian Inlet and Seal Team Scuba their boat for the Halsey Wreck.
Dive Odyssea of Ft. Pierce is donating tanks and Sebastian Dive and Surf Co. free air refills.
Other areas being cleaned are: the Sebastian Inlet State Park (shoreline &scuba), Lost Tree Islands (kayaks), Round
Island Park (kayaks), White City Park (kayaks), beaches (shoreline walkers) and the Halsey Wreck (SCUBA).
Morning starting times on July 24 are as follows: Sebastian Inlet shoreline; 9am, Inlet divers; 9:30am Pelican Island 9am,
ELC 7:30am and Round Island at 7:45am. White City park kayaks are on July 17 and Lost Tree Islands are on August 7.
For more information please go to www.earthdayfoundation.org . To sign up now contact Michael Hughes at 772-5672724 or email michael@earthdayfoundation.org.
http://www.earthactionfoundation.org - Earth Action Foundation
Powered by Mambo Open Source
Generated: 9 August, 2007, 16:11
INTERNATIONAL
COASTAL CLEANUP
DATA CARD
TM
Thank you for participating in the International Coastal Cleanup! The effort you are making today is the first
step to ensuring there are cleaner oceans and waterways year-round. By taking the time to fill out both sides of this
data card, The Ocean Conservancy will be able to compile and analyze data collected by over 300,000 volunteers in
over 90 countries, and be able to identify the activities and general sources causing the debris. An annual report will
then be created and distributed to help educate the public, business, industry, and government officials about marine
debris issues. Your work today truly makes a world of difference.
I. CLEANUP SITE INFORMATION
Type of Cleanup:
❏ Shoreline/Beach ❏ Underwater ❏ River/Stream/Tributary ❏ Lake
Location of Cleanup: State___________________________________________ Country____________________________________________
Province_________________________________________
Zone or County Cleaned:_____________________________________________
Cleanup Site Name (beach, park, etc.):_____________________________________________________________________________________
Today’s Date: Month________ Day_______ Year__________ Name of Coordinator:_________________________________________________
Number of People Working on This Card:_______________ Distance Cleaned:_____________________miles or_____________________km
Number of Trash Bags Filled:_________________________ Total Estimated Weight Collected:________________lbs. or______________kgs.
Estimated Time Spent on Cleanup:_________________________________________________________________________________________
II. CONTACT INFORMATION (EACH INDIVIDUAL TEAM MEMBER)
1. Name:_______________________________________________
3. Name:_______________________________________________
Email Address:________________________________________
Email Address:________________________________________
2. Name:_______________________________________________
4. Name:_______________________________________________
Email Address:________________________________________
Email Address:________________________________________
III. ENTANGLED ANIMALS: (❏ Dead or ❏ Alive). List all the entangled animals found during the Cleanup. Tell us what they
were entangled in (fishing line, rope, net, etc.) __________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
WHAT WAS THE MOST PECULIAR ITEM YOU COLLECTED?________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The following national and international organizations
endorse and/or support the International Coastal Cleanup:
◆ NOAA—Marine Debris Program
◆ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
◆ IUCN—The World Conservation Union
◆ Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of the
United Nations’ Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO)
Please return this card to your
area coordinator or mail it to:
The Ocean Conservancy
2029 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
Phone: 202-429-5609
Fax: 202-872-0619
www.oceanconservancy.org
ITEMS COLLECTED
Please pick up all debris that you find. Only record information for the items listed below.
Keep a count of your items using tick marks and enter the item total in the box.
Example: 8 Beverage Cans____________
IIII III
SHORELINE AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
(Debris from fast food, beach-goers, sports/games, festivals, litter from streets/storm drains, etc.)
Bags (paper or plastic) ______________________________
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons_______________________
Balloons___________________________________________
Food Wrappers/Containers_____________________________
Beverage Bottles (plastic) 2 liters or less_________________
____________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
Pull Tabs____________________________________________
Beverage Bottles (glass)______________________________
6-Pack Holders_______________________________________
Beverage Cans______________________________________
Shotgun Shells/Wadding_______________________________
Caps, Lids__________________________________________
Straws, Stirrers_______________________________________
Clothing, Shoes_____________________________________
Toys________________________________________________
OCEAN/WATERWAY ACTIVITIES
(Debris from recreational/commercial fishing and boat/vessel operations)
Bait Containers/Packaging___________________________
Fishing Nets_________________________________________
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles______________________________
Light Bulbs/Tubes_____________________________________
Buoys/Floats______________________________________
Oil/Lube Bottles______________________________________
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps_____________________________
Pallets______________________________________________
Crates____________________________________________
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps_________________________________
Fishing Line________________________________________
Rope_______________________________________________
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks____________________________
Strapping Bands______________________________________
SMOKING-RELATED ACTIVITIES
DUMPING ACTIVITIES
Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters___________________________
Appliances (refrigerators, washers, etc.)____________________
__________________________________________________
Batteries_____________________________________________
__________________________________________________
Building Materials_____________________________________
Cigarette Lighters___________________________________
Cars/Car Parts_______________________________________
Cigar Tips_________________________________________
55-Gal. Drums________________________________________
Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers_________________________
Tires________________________________________________
MEDICAL/PERSONAL HYGIENE
Condoms__________________________________________
DEBRIS ITEMS OF LOCAL CONCERN
(Identify and count 3 other items found that concern you)
Diapers____________________________________________
___________________________________________________
Syringes___________________________________________
___________________________________________________
Tampons/Tampon Applicators_________________________
___________________________________________________
© 2006 The Ocean Conservancy. 100% post-consumer recycled paper. Chlorine free.
MRRP Recycling Bin Data Form
Please make copies of this data form as needed. One Data Form per location please.
MRRP thanks you for your time and effort in returning this form to:
FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management
MRRP Coordination
2590 Executive Center Circle, East
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Or by E-mail to: Marine@MyFWC.com
Your Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________
Your Phone # or E-mail address: _______________________________________________________________________
Bin Location and County: _____________________________________________________________________________
Example:
Date
Date
Date
Date
11/7/2000
1) How full is the MRRP Recycling Bin?
Please base estimates on tightly packed line
Check one:
Less than 1/4 Full
1/4 Full
1/2 Full
X
3/4 Full
Full
2) Roughly how much trash is in the bin?
One piece = one item of trash
(i.e. one soda can or one cigarette package)
Check one:
Less than 5 pieces
X
5 - 10 pieces
Over 10 pieces
3) Are there problems with the recycling bin?
(Please report problems to MRRP)
Yes
No
X
4) If you answered 'yes' above, please briefly note the nature of the problem in the space below.
This information is for our records.
Date
Date
Suggestions for a Successful Clean-up
Make a Plan!
Plan your work, and then work your plan.
Underwater monofilament line clean-ups can be dangerous, so careful advanced planning is essential.
Limit participating divers to those that are professional, or experienced divers found within your own
organization, local dive clubs, or dive shops. Often there are professional divers on your local police
departments, sheriff units, or fire departments, who may welcome the opportunity to practice their skills. Novice,
inexperienced divers should not be part of the underwater dive team, but may be useful as topside spotters or
diver assistants.
Plan to do the clean-up on a slack tide (the interval between incoming and outgoing tides), times of good water
clarity, and if applicable at a time with reduced boating activity (i.e. a weekday, before or after fishers go out/in.)
Plan the event for when weather conditions will be optimal. Schedule several alternate dates in case conditions
are poor on the first date.
Create a master list of all participants, their name, affiliation, cell phone and emergency numbers, and their
duties during the clean-up. Consider creating “crews” or teams.
If using boats as launch sites for divers create a float plan for each boat. Include boat model and registration
number, captain, crew, and diver names, and emergency contact information and cell phone numbers for each.
Create a dive plan for each boat. Outline the number of dives, divers, depths, and bottom times for each day.
Provide general coordinates for the planned dives.
Have a meeting to review safety procedures and to familiarize divers with each others’ equipment (alternate air
sources, spare knives/scissors, and weight belt release) prior to the dive. Review the buddy system and hand
signals, including “help”. Working with monofilament can be dangerous and entanglement is a risk, therefore,
divers should stay within visual contact of their buddy at all times and frequently check on each other. Divers
should also review the proper procedures to follow if they are separated from one another (look for their buddy
for one minute while banging tank and then surface.)
Assign spotters and diver assistants for each boat and use topside spotters that work from land (i.e. shore,
beach, pier, jetty, etc.) Each boat should have a captain and at least one topside assistant on board.
Create an emergency haul-out plan to get everyone out of the water quickly if necessary. A standard recall
signal is three loud “revs” of the boat’s motor.
Sometime prior to the event, divers should be coached on clean-up etiquette. If removing a piece of debris will
cause more harm to the environment, leave it. Use extreme caution when working around corals. Make sure
divers can identify coral and understand its fragile nature. Inform divers of exotic species they may encounter
and how to deal with them.
For a large clean-up, consider having a dumpster(s) and recycling bins delivered to the site(s).
If active fishing is occurring in the collection area, design signs that ask fishers to stay out of the area for a short
time while the collection takes place.
Give advance notification of your clean-up to your local Coast Guard unit, police or sheriff department, fire
department, FWC Law Enforcement (Florida), and the nearest EMT dispatch location. They should also be
provided copies of the dive plans and float plans.
Inform all participants of the location and time of the event, their designated duties, and any equipment they
need to bring. Also, give them a copy of the master contact list.
If water clarity, tides, or currents are bad, or adverse weather conditions are known the day before, contact all
participants to let them know the event is cancelled/rescheduled.
Consider preparing a press packet, send out press releases in advance of the event, and designate a
spokesperson to answer questions on the day of the event.
Supplies!
When shopping, the other line always goes faster.
Having the right tools will help to make the clean-up easier and safer.
Work with a local dive club or dive shop, they may have trained divers, and be willing to discount equipment
rental fees or donate air for the event. You can offer free publicity in return.
Divers and snorkelers should wear shorties, farmer johns, or full wetsuits as appropriate, and sturdy booties
since barnacles, oysters, or rocks may be present.
Divers should wear gloves. Topside collectors can use either surgical gloves or inexpensive Kevlar or leather
palm gloves.
Divers will need a sharp knife or other type of cutting tool, and underwater bags to collect the line. Dive sheers
are recommended, they are very effective, easy to use, and unlikely to cause injury to divers. Topside collectors
can use box cutters, scissors, knives, or the newer type of safety blade cutters with hand guard.
Ask local restaurants/stores if they would be willing to donate lunches, snacks, sunscreen, or water for the
clean-up.
Think about purchasing disposable cameras, especially underwater cameras.
Net bags like potato sacks work well for collecting the line or other wet trash that may be found. They also tend
to degrade fairly quickly in the environment (i.e. landfill.)
Have a first aid kit on hand for minor cuts or abrasions.
Containers for collecting recyclables, and for sinkers, weights, lures, etc. come in handy.
Purchase “Diver Down” flags; Diver Down flags are necessary for all dive and snorkel activities.
The Big Day!
Success comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.
Event days are always hectic, but your pre-planning will really pay off here – remember to have fun!
Get to the cleanup site early and have all necessary supplies on hand. Make sure that all participants have their
supplies and equipment (cutting tools, collection bags, gloves, water, cameras, sunscreen, etc.)
Have a pre-dive briefing. The boat’s safety equipment, recall signals, dive plans, buddies, etc. should be
reviewed at this time. Go over the clean-up protocols with everyone before splitting up into crews/buddies or
separate locations.
Have an end time when all divers should be out of the water.
Emphasize to spotters, diving buddies, and diver assistants the importance of keeping track of each diver at all
times. Head counts should be taken every time they surface.
Remind everyone to take lots of pictures!
Make sure that all participants are in their assigned jobs/locations, and that at least one person in each group
has the master contact list.
Do a cell phone check once everyone is in position.
Watch for changes in the tides, currents, and weather. Implement your emergency haul-out plan if necessary.
Be aware that dive gear is easily entangled, especially tanks, valves, flippers, and other projections. Caution
divers to remain calm if they become entangled, and either untangle themselves or alert their buddy for help.
This is why it is important for buddies to keep a close eye on each other.
Engage the press! Think of headlines like “recovery of dangerous substance” or “there’s a thin line between life
and death.”
Most of the line, and much of the debris collected will be too encrusted to recycle, so recycle what you can, and
then triple bag any line that needs to go to the landfill. Save lead weights, sinkers, lures, and any unusual items
for educational purposes.
Weigh the collected line as each boat or crew comes in. Inexpensive spring scales for weighing fish work well.
One pound of line equals one mile!
When finished collect all disposable cameras, loaned gear, and any extra supplies.
Haul encrusted line and other trash to the landfill, and send all recyclable items to the proper facility.
Follow-up!
One big day, one big thank you.
This is when you get to sit back and say “job well done” to yourself and to everyone who helped.
Send out thank you notes or e-mails to all participants and to anyone who facilitated the event. Include data and
photos!
Do a follow-up press release with totals for line and trash, and include photos.
If the event is during the Ocean Conservancy’s Coastal Clean-up include totals on their data card, and send it
in.
Create a database to record all line and other items collected for future reference.
Post data and photos on your website – what no website? Now you are really going to have to get busy!
FLOAT PLAN
Complete this form before going out on your boat and leave it with a person
who you can depend on to notify the FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE
CONSERVATION COMMISSION or other rescue organization in case you do
not return as scheduled. If you are delayed, and it is not an emergency, inform
those with your float plan, in order to avoid an unnecessary search operation.
RADIO(S)
YES
NO
FREQUENCY
CALL SIGNS
VESSEL AND VEHICLE INFORMATION
VESSEL REGISTRATION/DOCUMENT
NAME OF VESSEL
MAKE
MODEL
LENGTH
VEHICLE MAKE
VEHICLE MODEL
TAG NUMBER
TRIP EXPECTATIONS
LEAVING FROM
DATE & TIME
BOAT RAMP
LATITUDE & LONGITUDE
DESTINATION
RETURNING TO
DATE & TIME
PERSON(S) ON BOARD
PERSON FILING THIS PLAN
PHONE NUMBER
CELLULAR NUMBER
OCCUPANT
PHONE NUMBER
CELLULAR NUMBER
OCCUPANT
PHONE NUMBER
CELLULAR NUMBER
OCCUPANT
PHONE NUMBER
CELLULAR NUMBER
OCCUPANT
PHONE NUMBER
CELLULAR NUMBER
SAFETY/SURVIVAL EQUIPMENT
LIFE JACKETS (PFD'S)
VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
NUMBER:
SOUND PRODUCING DEVICE
EXTRA CLOTHING
FOOD/WATER
TOOLS
DIAL 1-888-404-3922 OR #FWC ON YOUR CELL PHONE
FWC 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 (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.
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
Encountering an Entangled Animal
Sea Turtles:
If you encounter an entangled sea turtle, gently bring the turtle close to you, use a dip
net or firmly hold its front flipper and shell to safely lift it out of the water.
•
DO NOT lift the turtle above water by pulling the line—this will result in further
injury.
•
AVOID the turtle’s mouth and flipper claws.
•
Cut line using blunt scissors or a knife and remove any excess line that has
become entangled around the turtle.
•
DO NOT remove any fishing hooks unless the turtle is lightly hooked and it can
be taken out without further injury. If you are uncertain, DO NOT remove hooks.
Turtles with serious cuts, ingested, or deeply embedded hooks need veterinary care.
Keep the turtle in the shade and DO NOT transport. Immediately call the FWC Wildlife
Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
Marine Mammals (dolphins, manatees, whales):
If you encounter an entangled marine mammal, do not attempt to capture or untangle
the animal. Immediately call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922)
or the NOAA Fisheries Stranding Hotline at 1-305-862-2850.
Fishes or Rays (including crabs, and other aquatic animals):
If you encounter an entangled aquatic animal, gently bring it close to you and use a dip
net to safely lift it out of the water.
•
Never lift the animal by pulling the line—this will result in further injury.
•
If the animal is aggressive or has sharp teeth (snapping turtles, etc) AVOID its
mouth or claws.
•
Cut line using blunt scissors or a knife and remove any excess line that has
become entangled around it.
•
DO NOT remove any fishing hooks unless is lightly hooked and it can be taken
out without further injury. If possible, cut the line as close to the hooks as
possible. Most fishing hooks will rust out.
Large fish (sharks, rays, sawfish) with serious cuts, ingested, or deeply embedded hooks
may need special care. DO NOT attempt to transport these animals. Immediately call the
FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
Birds and Land Animals:
If you encounter an entangled PELICAN, gently bring it close to you, the bird will
probably struggle, so try to be as gentle as possible.
•
Cover the bird’s head with a towel or shirt. If the bird’s eyes are covered, it will
most likely relax.
•
Reach around the outside of the towel and hold the pelican’s bill closed. Never
tape, tie or strap the bill shut!
•
Use your other hand or have someone help you fold its wings into their natural
position against the bird’s body.
•
Place the bird in a cardboard box for transport to a wildlife rehabilitator. Hold the
beak through transport.
If you encounter another species of entangled or injured bird or land animal (raccoon,
squirrel, etc) be very careful not to startle the animal. Smaller birds and animals may be
transported to a wildlife hospital by placing a towel over them and easing them into a
box. You should not attempt to transport larger or dangerous animals, like wading birds
or ospreys. Instead, contact the nearest wildlife rehabilitator or hospital for instructions.
Wildlife Rehabilitators of Florida courtesy of SoutheasternOutdoors.com
This listing may not be complete. As always check your local listings before you plan an
event and notify the nearest facility to let them know you will be working in the area and
that you may require their services.
Alachua County & north central Florida
Florida Wildlife Care - Assisting with native wildlife, all species large and small that are
orphaned, sick, injured or displaced. Providing live animal education programs and
wildlife sanctuary. North central Florida's largest wildlife center covering eleven counties,
handling all wildlife issues; information, nuisance, rescue, endangered species, special
projects. Conservation of Native wildlife and habitat through education, rehabilitation and
study. Call Business office (352)371-4443, 24 hr Wildlife helpline: (352)371-4400 or Email center@floridawidlifecare.org
Altha
Big Bend Wildlife Sanctuary, Inc. - black bears. We also have a Bird of Prey
educational program including a Bald Eagle, Red Tailed Hawk, Great Horned Owl,
Barred Owl and Screech Owl. Our main focus is the Black Bear; however, we accept
ALL wildlife. Call (850)762-8685 or E-mail bbws1@digitalexp.com
Bradenton Beach
Wildlife, Inc. - Education and Rehabilitation. Call (941)778-6324 or E-mail
birdcarry@home.com.
Broward
Wildlife Care Center - Treat over 10,000 animal patients annually. Specialize in native
FL wildlife but also accepts certain domestic/exotic species that are abused, abandoned,
stray, or cruelty cases. Call (954)524-4302 or E-mail SSWildcare@aol.com.
Citrus County
H.O.P.E. Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation - we accept all wildlife except vultures
and reptiles. Call (352)628-9464 or (352)628-7878 or E-mail victorian@xtalwind.net.
Daytona Beach
Wildlife Rehabilitation of Daytona Beach - Specialties: All mammals, raccoons,
opossums, squirrels, bats, otters, fox. Call (386) 767-2500 or E-mail
wildlifedaytona@aol.com.
Deerfield Beach
Rascals Wildlife Care Network, Inc. - Specialties: squirrels (see all wildlife). Call
(954)779-0364 or E-mail allthingsbright@webtv.net.
Destin
Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge, Inc. - Specialties: baby raccoons. Call (850)837-3529
or (850)654-5046 or E-mail parvinj2@fwb.gulf.net.
Eustis
Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Central Florida - Specialties: work with all species of
native Florida wildlife. Call (352)357-5153 or E-mail rodgerj@ocps.k12.fl.us.
Fort Lauderdale
Jacque Corricelli - licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Specialties: Florida mammals,
orphaned birds of prey. Call (954)746-1816 or E-mail fcorrice@bellsouth.net.
Fort Lauderdale
Wildlife Care Center - Call (954)524-4302 or E-mail SSWildcare@aol.com.
Fort Lauderdale
Rascals Wildlife Care Network, Inc. - Specialties: all species, especially raccoons. Call
(954)779-0364 or E-mail ladynature@webtv.net.
Fort Pierce
Creature Safe Place - Take all area wildlife. Call (561)468-6616 or E-mail
WBurns3081@aol.com.
Gainesville
West End Animal Hospital - Specialties: insectivorous bats. Call (352)332-4357 or Email weah@atlantic.net.
Gainesville
Florida Wildlife Care, Inc. - all native Florida wildlife. Call (352)371-4400 (24 hr
helpline) or E-mail fwc@afn.org.
Hillsborough County
All Corners Wildlife Rehab - Orphaned and injured squirrels & opossum require
specialized care. We focus on quality care -- not just numbers.
Hobe Sound
Treasure Coast Wildlife Hospital, Inc. - Specialties: All native species. Resource for
information regarding medical and surgical care, caging construction, public education
and display, charitable organizations [501(c)(3)]. Call (561)546-8281 or E-mail
CannyDan@aol.com.
Inverness (Citrus County)
Nature World Wildlife Rescue - Specialties: bats, gray squirrels, flying squirrels. Call
(352)344-0241 or E-mail owls3@citrus.infi.net.
Inverness/Floral City (Citrus County)
Nature World - Specialties: raccoons. Call (352)637-2674 or E-mail
luckypig@citrus.infi.net.
Jacksonville
Mitzi Mobley - Independent Wildlife Rehabilitator. Rehabilitation of injured/orphaned
BABY raccoons. No nuisance calls please. Call (904) 381-0579 or E-mail
RaisingCoon@aol.com.
Jupiter
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary - over 2,000 patients per year; offer extensive environmental
educational programs. Call (561)744-1646 or E-mail BuschWS@aol.com.
Longwood
Wildwood Acres Wildlife Center - Specialties: laboratory skills, raptor rehab, shore
birds. Call (407)774-8857 or E-mail wildwoods2@aol.com.
Malabar
Doreen Friswold - licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Specialties: song birds, small
mammals, and pond birds. Call (407)951-8869 (fax or message) or E-mail
kd4sfm@hotmail.com.
Melbourne
Patti Chandler - licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Specialties: baby squirrels and bunnies,
song birds. Call (407)242-9895 or E-mail kicpac@msn.com.
Melbourne
Florida Wildlife Hospital - Call (407)254-8843 or E-mail wildlife@metrolink.net.
Miami
Falcon Batchelor Bird of Prey Center - Specialties: rehabilitation and ecological
research of birds of prey. Call (305)854-4247 (ext. 256) or E-mail
bmealey@miamisci.org.
Ocklawaha
Foundation for Environmental Awareness - Call (352)288-6754 (24 hours) or E-mail
eldon@floridafolks.com.
Ocoee / Winter Garden / Geneva
Earth Angels Wildlife - Specialties: squirrels, raccoons. Call (407)292-5232 (Nancy),
(407)656-3709 or (407)570 -7153 (Laurie), (407)349 -2889 (Diane) or E-mail
Caracal@aol.com (Nancy), MsBobcatt@hotmail.com (Laurie)
Okeechobee
Arnold's Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Inc - in Okeechobee, Florida. We rehab any
native Florida animal including birds. We have a nature trail, free roaming butterfly
garden and lots of animals to view on our nature trail and are open to the public
everyday from 9-5. Our contact number is 863-763-4630 .
Orlando
Tom Rudge Rehab Center - Specialty: birds, all smaller wildlife (but can refer callers).
Call (407)243-6701 or E-mail trudge@cfl.rr.com.
Pensacola
Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida - A non-profit organization, working to provide
appropriate care to injured or orphaned indigenous wildlife. Our primary objective is
rehabilitation and release, but we also provide a sanctuary for non-releasable wildlife.
Call (850) 433-9453 or email wildlife105@juno.com.
Port St. Joe
St. Joe Wildlife Sanctuary & Educational Center - Specialties: extensive shorebird
rehabilitation. Call (850)229-WING or E-mail info@StVincentIsland.com.
Punta Gorda
Peace River Wildlife Center - Specialty: birds of prey. Call (941)637-3830 or E-mail
yus@sunline.net.
Royal Palm Beach
Wildlife Resource Center of the Palm Beaches, Inc. - Specialty: wild birds. Call
(561)793-8075 or E-mail WildLifeRC@aol.com.
Sarasota
Pelican Man's Bird Sanctuary - Specialty: We take care of ALL wildlife, but specialize
in pelicans. Call (941)388-4444 or E-mail pelicanma@aol.com.
Satellite Beach
Crystal Lee Gilbert - licensed wildlife rehabilitator. We specialize in opossums, but take
care of ALL wildlife. Call (321) 779-1583 or E-mail wolfcg34@aol.com.
Sebring
Wrede's Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Inc. - raising of baby deer. Call (941)385-2770
or E-mail wwrc@digital.net.
Southwest Florida
Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (C.R.O.W.) - C.R.O.W. provides medical care
and rehabilitation for more than 3400 injured, sick and orphaned wildlife patients every
year, with the goal of returning them to their natural habitat. Under the direction of 2 fulltime Vets, we provide high quality medical care which incorporates both western and
eastern techniques. More than 160 species of birds, mammals and reptiles are treated
each year. Call (239)472 3644 or E-mail info@crowclinic.org. 3883 San-Cap Rd.
Sanibel, FL 33957
Sunrise
Rascals Wildlife Care Network, Inc. - opossums (see all wildlife), on call 24 hours. Call
(954)779-0364 or E-mail allthingsbright@webtv.net.
Tallahassee
St. Francis Wildlife Association, Inc. - opossums (see all wildlife), on call 24 hours.
Call (850)386-6296 or E-mail jonjohn@electro-net.com.
Tamarac
Rascals Wildlife Care Network, Inc. - raptors and reptiles (see all wildlife). Call
(954)779-0364 or E-mail webmargie@webtv.net.
Tampa
Wildlife Center of Tampa Bay Inc. - We serve Hillsborough and surrounding counties.
We will rescue and rehabilitate song birds, raptors and wading birds (we can transport
shore birds but do not rehab. them on-site), small mammals, fawns (we can assist with
contacting local rehabilitators for adult deer), and reptiles/amphibians excluding
venomous species. Please call 24/7 with questions or emergencies 813-986-2314.
Tampa
Debbie Bond - licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Small mammals and birds. Call (813)9329545 or E-mail bondokern@aol.com.
Tampa (East)
Denise Stepp - license subpermittee. Accepting small mammals, wildlife and exotics,
and rabies-vector species, including raccoons, squirrels, opossums, coatimundi,
kinkajou, fox, skunk, etc. (813) 454-2535
Tavernier (Florida Keys)
Ark Angels Wildlife Rescue, Inc. - Mammals, Call (305)852-2124 or E-mail
arkangels@reefnet.com.
Tierra Verde
Save Our Sea Birds Inc. - Seabirds, songbirds, oiled wildlife response, Call (727) 8640679 or E-mail sosinc@tampabay.rr.com.
Titusville
Chris Wise - licensed wildlife rehabilitator, Call (407)268-8688 or E-mail
CWILD@MEGABITS.NET.
Webster
La Guardar Inc. Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center - licensed wildlife
rehabilitator, Call (352)793-3094 or E-mail JungleJudi@aol.com.
West Palm Beach
Wildlife Care Center - birds, turtles, opossums, squirrels. Call (561) 471-3403
Sebastian Inlet
Marine Cleanup
The Earth Action Foundation is seeking
Scuba Divers, Kayak Enthusiast, Dive Boats,
Pontoon Boats, Chase Boats, Captains, Bubble
Watchers and other Volunteers to participate
in removing fishing line and other marine
debris.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Rain date: August 19, 2007
Sign up at
www.earthactionfoundation.org
• Fishing line kills
birds, sea turtles,
crustaceans, and
marine mammals.
• Six -pack rings, fishing line
and strapping bands entangle and
kill thousands of marine life yearly.
• Debris fouls propellers and/or causes engines
to overheat.
• Monofilament can last hundreds of years! A
careless moment by us can impact marine life
on Earth through our lifetime, our children's
children's children’s lifetime, and beyond.
Your help is needed to build a
model cleanup program based
on a swarm concept. This
includes: Participation,
Cooperation, Communication
and Collaboration. Everyone
is invited to participate in
preserving the natural beauty
of our surroundings and
endangered wildlife.
Originals printed on best available eco-friendly paper
Fishing Line (Monofilament)
Recycling Program
NE Florida Sea Grant Extension Program
3125 Agricultural Center Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32092
(904) 824-4564
Monofilament Recycling Bin Commitment Guidelines
The purpose of this document is to outline the responsibilities undertaken with an agreement to
empty outdoor monofilament (fishing line) recycling bins, and to verify this agreement.
Voluntary agreement to empty a recycling bin is an integral part of Florida Sea Grant’s recycling
efforts and is a commitment deeply appreciated by Florida Sea Grant and supporting agencies.
The intent of the following information is to clarify the steps involved in this commitment so
both the volunteer and Florida Sea Grant understand what is expected of each other. To
accommodate this goal the bin checking and emptying process has been broken down into the
following five steps.
Step One:
The volunteer goes to their committed location and gives the bin a general visual inspection.
•
•
•
•
Check to see if the stickers are worn or faded and in need of replacement
Make sure that the bin is still fastened securely
Ensure that the sign (when applicable) is still present and in good condition
Inspect for general cleanliness and good condition of the recycling bin
If any problems are noted in this step the volunteer should call the Florida Sea Grant extension
office at 904-824-4564 and notify them of the poor conditions. Florida Sea Grant will ensure
any reported problems are rectified.
Step Two:
The volunteer should bring a trash bag or a reused plastic shopping bag to collect line from the
bin. By placing their bag under the cap at the bin’s base and unscrewing the cap, monofilament
line can be removed from the bin so that it falls directly into the bag. The volunteer should then
replace the cap. If there is a problem with the cap sticking so that it cannot be opened, please
contact the Florida Sea Grant extension office.
Step Three:
In many cases there may be discarded items other than fishing line in the bin. Volunteers are
welcome to recycle any aluminum cans or plastic bottles at their home recycling facilities.
•
Any trash will need to be sorted out and placed in a garbage can.
Page 2
Bin Commitment Guidelines
•
In addition to trash mixed in with the line, any leaders, hooks, weights, lures and
other fishing paraphernalia will need to be cut out of the monofilament.
Some of the line itself may be badly degraded and either encrusted with organisms from a long
period underwater, or in poor condition from long exposure to sunlight. Unless this damaged
line can be reasonably cleaned, perhaps at home with a garden hose and then dried, spoiled line
should be discarded in the garbage, as it cannot be recycled. In our experience, cleaning line is
more easily accomplished indoors, perhaps in a garage, shed, or on a sheltered patio at home.
Working with monofilament line in the windy outdoors can become a loosing battle.
•
•
Cut discarded line into small lengths – less than 12”. This will ensure that the line
does not entangle scavenging animals that might interact with it in a landfill.
A general rule of thumb is; “When in doubt throw it out.” The Berkley Pure Fishing
Company that recycles our monofilament is very particular about having only clean
line end up at their recycling facility.
To cut hooks and leaders out of the monofilament, and to cut damaged monofilament into small
pieces, Florida Sea Grant recommends using:
•
•
•
A pair of fingernail or toenail clippers is the ideal tool; very safe and very strong
A safe cutting tool such as a presto letter opener (a small sharp blade protected by a
plastic casing about the size of a business card); very inexpensive
A plastic guarded seatbelt cutter
Call the Florida Sea Grant extension office for more information on these products or for other
suggestions.
Step Four:
The remaining clean and cleared line may now be taken to a local tackle shop that provides an
indoor Berkley recycling receptacle. For names of these tackle shops please see the attached list.
If the volunteer is unable to get to a tackle shop to drop off their line, please contact the Florida
Sea Grant extension office and other arrangements will be made.
Step Five:
The final phase in emptying a monofilament recycling bin is to record the amount of line that
was emptied with each visit, and the frequency of visits on the attached “Data Form.” One data
form should be used for each bin, and each data form can be used for five visits. In other words,
the volunteer should jot down how often they empty each bin and if the bin was one quarter full,
one half full, three quarters full, or completely full each time they empty the bin.
Page 3
Bin Commitment Guidelines
•
Please try to base estimates on line that is well compressed into the cylinder portion
of the bin.
Estimates and rates of emptying should be reported periodically to the Florida Sea Grant
extension office, either mailed in or sent by e-mail (to: mpmcguire@mail.ifas.ufl.edu).
Additional Responsibilities:
If at any time during their commitment to bin emptying the volunteer finds the condition of the
bin or its contents to be beyond the scope of their management, they are encouraged to contact
the Florida Sea Grant extension office and report the problem. Examples of problems that might
be beyond a volunteer’s responsibilities include bins that have been marred by graffiti, bins that
have come unattached from their supporting posts, or contents that are dangerous. Florida Sea
Grant or the appropriate facility manager will handle anything beyond the realm of the
responsibilities listed in the five steps above, but notification is essential.
The frequency with which individual bins will need checking and emptying will vary depending
on the season and location. A visual inspection should be conducted about once a month in case
of vandalism or the effects of severe weather. The rate of bin emptying described in steps two
through five will need to be determined during the monthly visual checks. At some locations a
bin may need monthly emptying, while at another a few months may pass before a substantial
amount of line accumulates.
If you have read, understood, and agree to the responsibilities outlined in the five steps to empty
a recycling bin, please sign and date this agreement in the space provided below.
I agree to check, empty, and deliver recyclable fishing line to a tackle shop for Florida Sea
Grant’s outdoor recycling bin(s) at the following locations:
__________________________________
____________________________________
__________________________________
____________________________________
__________________________________
____________________________________
I will check, empty and deliver recyclable fishing line for at least one year from today’s date. If
I wish to end this commitment I will notify the Florida Sea Grant extension office so that a new
volunteer can be found to continue maintaining the outdoor recycling bin(s) at the site(s) listed
above.
Signed: ____________________________
Date: ______________________________