Study of lost lobster traps called

BOSTON (AP) - A bill making its way through Beacon Hill would require the state to investigate the hazards posed by lost lobster traps.

The bill calls for the state Division of Marine Fisheries to conduct "an investigation and study relative to lobster traps washed ashore by natural causes."

The bill, sponsored by Rep. James Cantwell, a Marshfield Democrat, specifically directs the fisheries division to study the impact of lost fishing gear "on public safety and the aesthetics of the shoreline."

The division would be required to report its findings and make recommendations on how to address the problem.

The bill is scheduled to come up at a Statehouse hearing Thursday before the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture.