07/01/2026
Volunteer Opportunity (Unpaid)
Position Title: Derelict Lobster Pot Removal Project Volunteer
Description:
Cornell Cooperative Extension is seeking motivated volunteers to assist with ongoing derelict lobster trap removal efforts in the Long Island Sound. Since 2010, the Marine Program has worked alongside the commercial lobster industry to identify, recover, and recycle abandoned fishing gear that contributes to marine debris and “ghost fishing” — the continued capture and mortality of marine life in lost traps. To date, more than 22,000 derelict lobster traps, totaling an estimated 1.1 million pounds, have been removed from New York waters of the Long Island Sound through this collaborative effort. Volunteers will participate in hands-on marine conservation work aboard research vessels, helping support ecosystem restoration and sustainable fisheries management in local coastal waters.
Volunteers should be comfortable working on boats in varying weather and sea conditions and able to lift heavy materials repeatedly throughout the day. Ideal candidates are recent college graduates or students pursuing careers in marine science, environmental conservation, fisheries, or related fields who are looking to gain field experience and contribute to meaningful environmental stewardship work. Volunteers may be needed for one to two trips per week and should be prepared for physically demanding work that involves getting dirty, handling fishing gear, and working closely with researchers and commercial fishermen during field operations. Long field days beginning early in the morning are common. Reliable transportation is required, and applicants based in Suffolk County are strongly preferred due to varying departure ports and early start times.
To apply, please submit the following to Tyler Guteres at [email protected]:
1) A current resume
2) A brief statement outlining your interest in the volunteer position, and any prior experience with field work, scientific data collection, or working at-sea.
