For the past four years, after lobster fishing season has ended, Santa Barbara Channelkeeper has surveyed local beaches and partnered with the Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara to remove derelict traps from targeted shorelines.

To assist in that effort, from 8:45 a.m.-1 p.m., April 19, the public is invited to help dig out buried lobster traps and place them at collection points along the beach. The traps will then be loaded onto a commercial fishing vessel and transported to the Santa Barbara Harbor for reuse or proper disposal.

Santa Barbara Channelkeeper recently identified an onshore lobster trap debris hotspot between Mesa Lane and Shoreline Park.

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In addition to cluttering up local beaches, derelict lobster traps can entangle marine wildlife, release microplastics, and create safety hazards for vessels and beachgoers.

The Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara group has been working to remove traps throughout the season. The April 19 cleanup will provide them with additional support.

Volunteers will gather at the Mesa Lane Steps and walk down the beach toward Shoreline Park to remove traps. Protective clothing and closed-toe shoes are required as traps can have sharp edges. 

Volunteers will use shovels, bolt cutters, and pry bars to dig out buried traps, remove rocks and debris, and stage traps in piles for removal offshore to a commercial fishing boat.

Fishermen from Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara will provide vessel support to load traps and transport them to the Santa Barbara Harbor.