What do you do with hundreds or thousands of pounds of useless rope? New federal regulations are making lobster float-rope – the multi-colored ropes used by Maine lobstermen to tie underwater traps together – illegal. According to activists, the the ropes pose as threats to whales who can easily become ensnared within them.
Float-rope, which rises just a bit above the ocean floor to prevent snags, must be replaced with sink rope by April. And hundreds –perhaps millions – of pounds of float-rope will become obsolete.
According to Laura Ludwig of the Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation, many would be melted and then molded into very cheap plastic plant pots and trays.
Many people fear that the extra ropes could end up in landfills.
Until now. A new company based in Waldoboro, Maine, is weaving recycled float-rope into a truly unique, environmentally friendly home product everyone needs – doormats.
Ludwig coordinates a federally-funded program that offers lobstermen vouchers of for each pound of float-rope tuned in. Exchanges are held along the Maine coast. The vouchers are considered good as cash, enabling the lobstermen to use them to buy new sink rope
What happens next?
The Maine Float-Rope Company collects and recycles the rope turning it into bright and vibrant – as well as virtually undestructible - doormats. According to the company’s website “It’s a win-win – a safer habitat for whales, some financial relief for the lobstermen, and a cleaner environment.”
So, why would anyone buy a float-rope doormat ?
First of all, they’re authentic. Each one consists of real lobster float-rope collected from the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an entirely unique way to add character to any home – especially those lake or ocean cottages inspired by nautical décor.
Secondly, they’re colorful and pleasing to the eye. Float-rope comes in a variety of bright to muted tones and, woven together, make a warm and cheerful entryway .
And lastly, they work. They capture all the sand, snow, dirt, and mud clinging to shoes and paws – exactly what you want from a strong doormat. Obviously, by nature, they’ll withstand all kinds of weather, are resistant to mold and mildew, and avoid absorbing water – after all, the rope was originally designed to hold lobster traps together for long periods of time in the ocean.
Made by hand in Maine, they also provide the local economy with jobs and revenue. It’s a great idea, a great company, and a great way to recycle.
Recycled Lobster Float Rope Finds New Life
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Tanya Roberts Outrageous Love & Friendship Sam Botta-Live Fearless-Chris Shining,Executive Producer
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