The Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program (MRRP) is dedicated to reducing the environmental damage caused by discarded fishing line. Monofilament lasts up to 600 years in the marine environment where it entangles wildlife, is eaten by animals including birds, fish, manatees and sea turtles, and is hazardous to boaters and swimmers. MRRP raises awareness and encourages responsible handling of monofilament by creating a network of indoor and outdoor line recycling receptacles, conducting regular cleanups, and public education.

MRRP partners have successfully collected over 2000 pounds of monofilament in Florida and the program has already been successfully established in twelve Florida counties. MRRP educational materials include posters (with artwork donated by Guy Harvey), fliers, brochures, PowerPoint presentations, and public service announcements. Save the Manatee Club is an MRRP partner. You can find out more about MRRP and monofilament recycling by visiting the MRRP website at: www.fishinglinerecycling.com

What is MRRP Week?

From April 25-May 4, 2003 members of the Florida Entanglement Team will be coming to the Keys to coordinate monofilament cleanups, distribute MRRP recycling bins, and present information on monofilament recycling. MRRP Week schedule:

April 25, 26 & 27 - Monofilament and Reef Cleanups will be coordinated on . For information on underwater or shoreline cleanup events, contact the Ocean Conservancy at 727-895-2188.

April 28, 29 and May 1 - MRRP workshops organized. MRRP recycling bins can be adopted at the meetings and examples of educational materials will be distributed. Meeting dates are listed below:

Key Largo - John Pennekamp National Park Visitor Center - April 28, 6-8 p.m.

Marathon - Sea Turtle Hospital - April 29, 6-8 p.m.

Key West - Harvey Government Center - Old Truman School - May 1, 6-8 p.m.

Please confirm your attendance at a workshop by contacting Leesa Souto via telephone at 321-723-4547 Ext. 200 or email Lsouto@mriresearch.org

May 2, 3 & 4 - MRRP display and presentation at the Florida Marine Science Educators Association Conference on Pigeon Key. For conference information, access www.fmsea.org