The North Atlantic right whale (NARW) is an endangered species that is negatively impacted by entanglements in fishing gear. The goal of this project was to determine the characteristics of a rope for use in the vertical lines of lobster traps that would be safe for NARWs and effective for lobster fishing. To complete our goal, we conducted interviews with whale researchers and lobstermen in Maine. We created a multivariable assessment tool to assess potential alternatives to current lobster fishing ropes. We then assessed seven alternatives to current ropes to display the tool’s effectiveness. The New England Aquarium sponsored this project and we recommend that they continue to use our multivariable assessment tool as well as conduct further research on rope alternatives.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Rosales Espinoza, Francisco Javier
• Fortin, Sarah Ashley
• Tierney, Emily Rose
• Ewing, Tyler Jon

Subject

• Environment
• Innovation

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-101713-150915

Keyword

• Fisheries
• Sustainability
• Wildlife conservation

Advisor

• McWeeny, Jennifer
• Tuler, Seth

Year

• 2013

Center

• Boston, Massachusetts Project Center - IQP

Sponsor

• Werner, Tim
• Knowlton, Amy
• The New England Aquarium

Date created

• 2013-10-17

Location

• Boston

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright