From Tautog to Quahog, Reed Joins DEM’s Monthly Coastal Survey Trawl of Narragansett Bay

***WATCH: footage & photos from the survey***

JAMESTOWN, RI - In an effort to help monitor the health of Narragansett Bay and local fisheries, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today embarked on a trawl survey with experts from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) where he helped sort and count fish and other aquatic species before releasing the catch back into the ocean.

For decades, DEM has conducted monthly surveys of Narragansett Bay, collecting and analyzing scientific data and providing it to the public and Rhode Islanders who make a living catching fish and other aquatic species on the Bay.

"The health of the Bay is critical to the health and well-being of all Rhode Islanders," said Senator Reed. "It was great to get out on the water today with the dedicated researchers, marine biologists, and experts at DEM. They are conducting crucial research that assists with coastal management. From small bottom dwelling critters to keystone species to apex predators, each trawl offered important information about the vitality, stability, and resiliency of our marine ecosystem. I will continue working at the federal level to support our fishermen and shellfishermen, turn the tide on pollution, act on climate, and ensure a brighter future for Narragansett Bay."

The monthly surveys collect samples at over a dozen individual stations located throughout Narragansett Bay that are chosen to represent a diverse range of depths and aquatic habitats. Data collected helps to determine distribution of species found through Rhode Island waters.

Acting Chief of the DEM Division of Marine Fisheries Scott Olszewski and DEM Vessel Captain Pat Brown led today's trawl, which was towed by the western-rigged 50-foot RV John H. Chafee and launched from DEM's Marine Fisheries Center at Jamestown's Forth Wetherill. The RV John H. Chafee was built in 2002 and dedicated in honor of the late U.S. Senator from Rhode Island. This research vessel was designed specifically to carry out trawl surveys and other DEM-led research initiatives.

To help protect sea creatures and ocean habitat, the boat uses a 2-seam otter trawl fitted with mesh liner to help retain juvenile and adult finfish and crustaceans. The trawl doors also include Notus sensors which help the crew monitor in real-time how the gear in the water is fishing.

The Rhode Island Coastal Trawl survey has conducted over 6,500 survey tows and collected key data on 132 species since 1979. In additional to seasonal and monthly coastal survey trawls, DEM also conducts Narraganset Bay Seine surveys, lobster settlement surveys, coastal pond seine surveys, lobster ventless trap surveys, fyke net surveys, fish pot surveys, horseshoe crab spawning surveys, cable ventless trap surveys, and gillnet observer surveys. More information about DEM fisheries surveys and research programs can be found here.

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