Released by the Florida Fish & Conservation Commission …
Fishing is one of Florida’s favorite outdoor activities.
However, fishing line and other tackle can cause problems when they enter Florida’s aquatic environment.
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Monofilament is the most common type of fishing line and is not biodegradable, lasting up to 600 years depending on environmental conditions. Because it is thin and often clear, it is very difficult for birds and animals to see. This can lead to them easily becoming entangled, resulting in different types of injuries. Monofilament can also entangle habitats, causing damage to coral reefs and posing a threat to scuba divers. You can do your part to help prevent these issues by avoiding snags and properly disposing of used fishing line through the FWC’s Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program. MRRP is an innovative statewide project dedicated to reducing damage caused by monofilament and fluorocarbon fishing line through a network of volunteers, recycling bins and drop-off locations. Place your used monofilament or fluorocarbon in one of the PVC MRRP bins found at many boat ramps and piers. These bins are monitored regularly by individuals or organizations that have adopted them. Many tackle shops also act as convenient line recycling drop off locations. Once the monofilament and fluorocarbon are collected from recycling bins and cleaned by volunteers, they are then shipped to the Berkley Pure Fishing company in Iowa for recycling. Disposing of Non-monofilament Line and Tackle To discard non-monofilament line, such as braid or wire, cut the line into 12-inch or smaller pieces and place into a covered trash receptacle. Line placed in trash receptacles without lids can blow out into the environment and entangle wildlife. Visit www.mrrp.MyFWC.com or email Marine@MyFWC.com for more information on how to:
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