North Atlantic right whale mother and calf. Credit: Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, taken under NOAA permit #20556-01.
Approved Weak Inserts and Line for the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan
Learn which weak inserts and line are approved for use under the 2021 Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan modifications and how to install weak inserts.
The 2021 modifications to the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan apply to the Northeast Lobster/Jonah crab trap/pot fishery only. Requirements for all other areas, other trap/pot fisheries, and gillnet fisheries remain the same.
The modifications remove the requirement for weak link at buoys and other surface system flotation devices, though they are not prohibited, and adds requirements for weak rope or insertions within the buoy line.
Approved Fully Formed Weak Rope
Currently the full length weak rope approved for use are:
- Rocky Mount Cordage Company’s fully formed 1,700 pound weak rope in Red (3/8” diameter) and Candy Cane (3/8” diameter)
- Neocorp 3/8" diameter polyester rope (1021)
- Seaway's 5/16" #10 Braid
(Shippagan 3/8" has been removed from this list and is no longer approved)
Approved Weak Inserts and Links
Below are images of approved weak inserts and links, as well as videos on how to install approved weak inserts. All weak rope (1700-pound breaking strength) inserts must be at least 3 feet in length.
Please check this page for updates, as we will be adding weak inserts as they are approved.
In-line Link, also called Endline or Buoy Line Breakaway
Image
Novabraid South Shore Sleeve
Lazy or 4-Tuck Splice
Cut Splice with 3 Tucks
End or Butt Splice
Eye Loop Splice
Contacts
- John Higgins, Northeast Fisheries Liaison: (207) 610-3282, john.higgins@noaa.gov
- Rob Martin, Northeast Gear Specialist: (617) 710-6322, robert.martin@noaa.gov
North Atlantic right whale mother and calf. Credit: Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, taken under NOAA permit #20556-01.
