While at its source, old, tangled, and derelict fishing line is unsightly and reduces the aesthetics and recreational value of our waterways, improperly disposed of fishing line poses detrimental impacts to habitat and can harm the local fauna that get entangled in or ingest it. Fishing line is not biodegradable, and when left in the environment, it could persist for hundreds of years. Proponents of getting out into nature, Harbor Watch encourages outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of Long Island Sound and its tributaries responsibly. To help, we have partnered with the Town of Wilton to provide and maintain fishing line recycling receptacles along the Norwalk River.

Throughout the year, Harbor Watch will collect the disposed of fishing line, clean (rinse debris off of line as well as remove hooks and lures), and ship the monofilament to a recycling facility. There the monofilament will be melted down into raw plastic pellets, which can, in turn, be used to make tackle boxes, spools, toys, and more!

Do you have a location in Fairfield County that you believe could benefit from a fishing line recycling
receptacle? Please email harborwatch@earthplace.org to discuss getting one set up!

Current Partners: