Tidal Fisheries Advisory Commission
March 17, 2011
By-Catch and Fisheries Habitat
The Terrapin Institute requests guidance and support from the Tidal Fisheries Advisory Commission in
mitigating fisheries by-catch mortality and shoreline habitat destruction. Most of the following
reference materials relate to diamondback terrapins, but transfer to the broader conservation context,
other species and the industry. Considering the expertise within the TFAC, we felt it would be
unnecessary to present the historical reference, photographs and scientific data as evidence of the
problem. Rather, in order to allow sufficient time for counsel from the Commissioners, our remarks are
limited to a brief overview, a few cases to illustrate our concerns, and some suggestions to inspire feed
back and further consideration. Unless otherwise referenced, the information presented is based on
first hand experience and may not reflect the entire fishing industry in Maryland. Please forgive and
correct any information that may be incomplete or inaccurate. The reports and other documents
referenced herein are available. We hope to leave with a commitment from the TFAC and a motion to
adopt a strategy of resolving by-catch and habitat destruction. We would also appreciate your opinion
on the future of terrapin conservation in the fisheries management context.
By-catch Mortality
The impact of fishing gear on aquatic resources and non-targeted species is undeniable. Unattended
submerged fishing gears such as fyke nets and crab pots are lethal to air-breathing animals. Pound nets
and bank traps are not fully submerged, but hold aquatic species in concentrated conditions for
extended periods. If not tended frequently, animals trapped in these gears feed off each other, die from
heat stress, and succumb to low oxygen levels. According to a 2009 DNR Wildlife and Heritage
Service Progress Report to the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service1, the primary conservation issue for
terrapins is “bycatch in co