Grant Notice: On-Demand Gear Grant and Research Program

The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (MA DMF) has issued a solicitation for commercial fishers to participate in the 2026 On-Demand Gear Grant and Research Program, targeting activity during the fixed-gear closure seasons in specified restricted fishing areas within Massachusetts waters. This program invites eligible lobster (fixed gear) and mobile gear fishers to test and deploy on-demand fishing gear technology, including electronic transducers, satellite communications, and related software, as part of a research initiative to evaluate alternatives to traditional gear that reduce environmental impacts while maintaining fishery access in closure zones. Participation requires holding a valid 2025 Massachusetts commercial fishing permit, renewal by February 28, 2026, and authorization through an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) or Letter of Authorization (LOA) that allows fishing without persistent surface buoy lines in Marine Restricted Areas (MRA) or Seasonal Inshore Restricted Areas (SIRA). Preference is granted to vessels with documented fishing history in the designated restricted areas from either 2012–2014 or 2018–2020. Participants may receive reimbursements up to $35,000 for fixed gear and $6,000 for mobile gear fishers, covering eligible equipment and operational costs. The arrangement is structured as a grant rather than a traditional contract, with no formal CLINs, FAR clauses, or price schedules. Monthly reporting of gear performance, fishing activity, and technical functionality is mandatory during the closure periods, and compliance with state and Northeast Fisheries Science Center EFP regulations is required throughout the program. Applications must be submitted by November 30, 2026, via email to the designated contacts, with ongoing requirements for monthly questionnaire submissions. Administration, acceptance, and regulatory oversight are managed by MA DMF, though formal inspection criteria or payment processing details are not explicitly provided. This initiative underscores a state-led effort to foster innovative gear technology testing to support sustainable fisheries management in Massachusetts.