Operation: Ghost Net Removal

A few weeks after the 2023 internship ended, TeJae and Jerriq returned to work determined to rid the local Tsoo-Yess and Wa’atch Rivers of ghost nets. TeJae’s research project focused on mapping derelict gillnets in these two bodies of water, motivating efforts to remove them and clean the local rivers. They spent six hours on a hot, humid day working up a sweat in boots and waders, cutting out monofilament gillnets and rope along the banks as they trudged through mud and deep water. Seven nets were hauled out of the rivers thanks to their hard work, amounting to 100 pounds of gear removed.

A key finding of TeJae’s research project was that the Tsoo-Yess and Wa’atch Rivers have 59 total nets among them. Much more time and effort are needed to remove the 42 derelict nets that still remain in the local waters of the Makah Reservation. TeJae and Jerriq worked hard, and their efforts were greeted with appreciation by local sports fishermen and curious onlookers. We would like to think that the jumping salmon and other river dwelling creatures were thankful too!