A federal fund supporting marine and beach cleanup organizations is making a comeback, albeit with reduced funding compared to previous years. According to a Department of Fisheries and Oceans spokesperson speaking to CBC News, the relaunched Ghost Gear Fund will amount to $15 million spread over three years. Details such as the fund’s official reopening date and potential changes to application criteria were not provided by the DFO.
Founder of Scotian Shores, Angela Riley, expressed her optimism about the fund’s return, citing its past assistance to her organization. However, she also raised concerns about the limited budget, stating that $15 million over three years may not suffice considering the broader scope of the issue.
Ghost gear, which refers to lost or abandoned fishing equipment contributing to ocean pollution, poses a significant problem in Atlantic Canada due to its historical fishing industry. The Ghost Gear Fund, initially launched in 2020, allocated $58.3 million to 134 cleanup projects domestically and internationally between 2020 and 2024. Notably, no funding was earmarked for 2025.
Following the discontinuation of Nova Scotia’s Marine Debris Clean-up Program earlier this year, Riley expressed relief that the federal initiative will continue to support organizations like hers in maintaining trash-free coastal waters. Scotian Shores has previously received funding from the Ghost Gear Fund, including grants of $75,000 and $150,000 post-tropical storm Fiona in 2022.
Similarly, the Fundy North Fishermen’s Association in New Brunswick received financial assistance from Ottawa for their cleanup efforts. Darlene Norman-Brown, the association’s assistant director, emphasized the significance of the funding in enabling more in-water retrieval trips, highlighting the difference it made in their operational capacity.
In-water cleanups, which involve scouring the sea floor to collect ghost gear, are costly endeavors. Norman-Brown noted the financial challenges faced by fishermen engaged in these activities, with rising fuel costs impacting their ability to cover expenses adequately.
As organizations strive to responsibly dispose of retrieved materials, recycling efforts can quickly deplete available funding. Riley acknowledged the importance of sustainable disposal practices, stressing the need for efficient resource allocation within the Ghost Gear Fund.
Looking ahead, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans is in the process of developing a “Ghost Gear Action Plan” slated for finalization in 2027. This strategic roadmap aims to address ongoing challenges related to marine and beach cleanup efforts.