Better Bycatch Reduction Devices for the Gulf Commercial Shrimp Trawl Fishery

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About the Better BRDs Project

Louisiana and Texas Sea Grant programs are working with the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to identify and promote certified bycatch reduction devices (BRDs –“bird”) for use in the shrimp trawl industry.  Current regulations state that each net must have one compliant BRD while fishing within the Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This project is one of many selected to restore natural resource injuries from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. For more information, please visit  www.gulfspillrestoration.noaa.gov/restoration-areas/open-ocean.

A BRD is a device or modification that lets finfish escape during tow or before catch is brought onboard. Watch a brief video demonstration here: What is a BRD. Ideally, it allows for the most fish to escape with minimal loss in shrimp.  A BRD must decrease bycatch by at least 30% weight for NOAA to certify its use.  This is validated through rigorous testing. Sometimes, this means multiple modifications or devices must be used together to reach the minimum reduction amount. Currently, there are five certified BRDs for use in the Gulf .

The Better BRD project will conclude in 2027 as no new BRDs passed the testing benchmark (> 10% increase in bycatch reduction over the fisheye) to continue to certification. The Sea Grant Offices are currently working with NOAA on final project reports and outreach materials to present to Gulf shrimpers and other interested parties through the Gulf. Sea Grant and NOAA will continue to assist shrimpers with current BRD usage

Download: Better Bycatch Reduction Devices Annual Report 2025