Environmental Firm to Recruit Watermen for Ghost Pot Removal in Talbot County
An environmental consulting firm based in Talbot County, Maryland, intends to recruit local watermen to help remove abandoned fishing gear, referred to as 'ghost pots', from the waterways.

Salisbury, MD, October 12, 2026 — An environmental consulting firm located in Talbot County, Maryland, has announced plans to engage local watermen in an effort to clear abandoned fishing gear from the region’s waterways. The initiative focuses on the removal of what are commonly known as ‘ghost pots’, which are derelict fishing traps that continue to catch marine life and pose a threat to aquatic ecosystems.
The firm, whose specific name was not provided in the summary, is seeking the expertise of experienced watermen. These individuals possess intimate knowledge of the local waterways and the skills necessary for locating and retrieving submerged gear. The recruitment aims to leverage this local knowledge for effective and efficient removal operations.
Ghost pots are a significant environmental concern, as they can persist in the marine environment for years, contributing to bycatch of fish, crabs, and other species. They can also damage sensitive habitats and pose navigational hazards. The program intends to address these issues directly by physically removing the gear from the water.
Details regarding the timeline for recruitment, the specific operational areas within Talbot County, or the duration of the removal project were not immediately available. The environmental consulting firm’s strategy relies on partnering with the watermen community, recognizing their crucial role in the stewardship of Maryland’s coastal resources. Further information on the project’s scope and the firm’s identity is anticipated.
Story summarized from the original created by Kyra Ceryanek on www.wboc.com, see more information here.
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