An important aspect of this project is engaging watermen and involving them in discussions about the pot loss issue and discussions about which directions to go next.  In November, SERC held a Maryland Blue Crab Ghost Pot Workshop in which watermen from all over the state came to discuss with us their experiences with blue crab pot loss and recovery and to help us make decisions about which directions the project should move next.  It was agreed by all present that prevention of pot loss is the best solution and many good ideas for public education and outreach were discussed.  We also were able to pinpoint some research needs to help better understand exactly how blue crab pots are affecting or not affecting the Bay ecosystem.  The waterman's input was very valuable in helping us understand this issue better.