Diamondback terrapin policy research – Current

Diamondback terrapins, which have recently been petitioned for listing under the Endangered Species Act, are frequently caught and killed in blue crab traps. One method for reducing terrapin deaths is the use of bycatch reduction devices in traps that are specifically designed for turtles, known as turtle excluders. Turtle excluders can be installed in crab traps to prevent terrapin for getting into traps, and studies show that these devices do not generally reduce crab catch. Turtle excluders are not, however, consistently required across states where recreational and/or commercial blue crab fisheries exist. The PIL is conducting research into policy avenues for incentivizing or requiring turtle excluders in crab traps. Our first research memo looked at the potential for terrapin exclusion rules through the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission; you may find that memo here.