These purse seine nets are not being used as they are intended.

Water depths less the 60’ do not allow for non-targeted marine life to escape as evidenced by dead bull redfish washing up on the Eastern Shore last summer.

The use of these nets in water depths less than 60’ can cause damage to essential fish habitat such as grass beds.

Depth restrictions will help avoid nets spills, net tears, and waste of the resource – which is beneficial for all stakeholders.