Right Whale Interaction Reduction Research Grant

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Division of Marine Fisheries is offering a research grant to develop and test technologies that reduce interactions between North Atlantic right whales (NARW) and the lobster trap fishery. Awardees will conduct monitoring, acoustic surveillance, gear innovation, and co‑occurrence analysis, with mandatory involvement from MADMF throughout the project. The grant is reimbursable based on actual expenses, with up to five years of contract term (initial two years plus three one‑year renewals). • Scope includes NARW monitoring, acoustic data collection, and development of ropeless or whale‑safe gear. • Proposals must include a detailed work plan, timeline, budget, and a Supplier Diversity Plan allocating at least 1 % of contract value to certified diverse partners. • Eligibility requires vendor registration with the Commonwealth, no debarment, and compliance with state and federal procurement rules.