An immersive, behind-the-scenes look at collaborative efforts to support a sustainable future for U.S. West Coast pot and trap fisheries.
Join SFP’s Protecting Ocean Wildlife team on October 6, 2026, in Santa Cruz, California, to see how industry and science are working together to protect marine wildlife and ensure the long-term viability of one of the West Coast’s most important fisheries through the use of on-demand (aka pop-up) fishing gear technologies.
Participants will meet the harvesters, scientists, and innovators who are leading efforts to reduce whale entanglement while supporting a thriving Dungeness crab fishery; learn about innovative fishing technologies, collaborative research, and management strategies; and gain insight into conservation challenges facing endangered whale populations and the role that seafood markets can play in supporting solutions.
What’s included
- A tour of the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation (NMFS) Gear Lending Library supporting harvesters in testing new technologies
- Hands-on dockside demonstrations of innovative on-demand fishing gear
- Opportunities to ask questions and engage directly with those developing and implementing these solutions.
Date:
October 6, 2026
Location:
National Marine Sanctuary Foundation (NMSF) Lending Gear Library, 2809 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (the Old Wrigley Building)
Time:
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cost:
There is NO FEE for this event. Registration includes continental breakfast, lunch, and transportation to dockside demonstration (as requested).
Contact SFP’s Protecting Ocean Wildlife Program Manager Anne DiMonti for more information and to register for the event.
Please RSVP by September 25, 2026, and include “RSVP Gear Tour” in your email subject line and provide the following information:
- Name
- Business title
- Organization/Company
- Address
- Phone number
- Dietary restrictions
Additional information and full agenda will be provided after confirmation of your reservation.