Instructions for the 44-inch inshore Turtle Escape Opening for Single Grid Hard Turtle Excluder Devices

This 4 page document provides instructions for modifying or constructing a 44-inch escape opening dimensions for a single-grid hard TED for use in inshore waters only (For use inshore of the COLREGS demarcation line only). This TED opening may not be used in offshore waters or in inshore waters in Georgia or South Carolina. All measurements are given in inches and apply to stretched mesh. The actual regulatory requirements are based on inches, not mesh size. These instructions include approximate mesh counts only to provide a general indication of the size of the required openings. The number of meshes required will differ depending on the mesh size of each net. These instructions summarize regulations at 50 C.F.R. 223.207 (a)(7)(ii)(A), 223.207(d)(2)(i), and  223.207(d)(3)(i). It is the responsibility of the owners and operators of vessels using these instructions to insure that their TEDs meet all regulatory requirements.

NOAA Fisheries

TED Technology Transfer Program

P.O. Box 1207 Pascagoula, Mississippi 39568-1207

PH: (228) 762-4591