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March 31, 2005
Mobile Bay National Estuary Program Initiates Mobile, AL., The Mobile Bay National Estuary Program in partnership with the Alabama Marine Resource Division is starting a new pilot project called Crab Watch. Crab Watch is a volunteer based program designed to monitor crab populations and potential invasive species through recreational crabbing. This project will encompass all of coastal Alabama. The roll of the volunteer is to report information on crabs, bycatch findings and other information by filling out a data sheet each time they check their crab traps. Volunteers are asked to participate in an annual training session where they will learn more about Blue Crabs (Callinectes sapidus), recreational crabbing regulations, trap maintenance, and how the volunteer program works. These sessions, lasting no longer than an hour, are being scheduled in various locations along the coast through April and early May. As anyone that catches blue crabs knows, often other species are caught in the traps. The volunteer will report unusual or unidentifiable species to the Mobile Bay NEP who in turn will work with Marine Resources to identify what was found. A complete manual will be given to each volunteer containing pictures of aquatic invasive species that might be found in this area. All data collected will be tabulated and analyzed as it is collected. Master Crab Watch volunteers are also being sought to play a larger role in the program. They will help pass out gear (rulers, gloves, etc), answer general questions, take pictures of any unidentifiable species, and assist in other areas of the program if necessary. Training sessions will be posted on the Mobile Bay NEP website and staff is available to speak to groups about this project. If you would like to participate in this new program contact the Mobile Bay NEP (251) 431-6409 or log onto www.mobilebaynep.comFor More Information Contact: Contact:
Kara Lankford,
Project Coordinator
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