Committed

to research and development of technologies that reduce harmful interactions between humans
and marine life

WHAT WE DO

Smelts has developed a patent pending ropeless lobster retrieval and marking technology that allows fishermen to fish and whales to live without the danger of entanglement

Research

We look at many different types of technologies that can be used to create the most durable, and easy-to-use gear

Development

We prototype, test and build working devices to be taken to the sea for full scale testing

Set and Haul

We work with fishermen to use our gear and we gather input from industry and regulators in order to create an easy to use device

Our

Mission

We are committed researching and developing new technologies for rescue and prevention of harmful human interaction on marine life. We strive to educate communities on how to be stewards of the environment by focusing on the ocean and its global importance to life on Earth.

Who We Are

SMELTS is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit located in Washington State.

We are creating Marine Mammal Interaction prevention technologies. Our focus is on eliminating entanglement in active fishing gear of large whales, pinnipeds, endangered sea turtles and basking sharks.

We are also invested in the reduction of bycatch from Abandoned, Lost, Derelict Fishing Gear (ALDFG). We strive to educate our community on human interaction with sensitive groups of at risk species.

Our Team

Captain Richard Riels

Founder, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR and VP OF
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT, LEAD ENGINEER

Ann Marie Riels

PRESIDENT
Co-Founder

Kevin Rand

DIRECTOR OF EAST COAST OPERATIONS

DANIEL GREENBERG

ENGINEER & DEVELOPER

Art Balzotti

Art director

Some of our Collaborators

Contact Us

Let’s Work Together

Feel free to connect with us if you have questions about our work, are interested in learning more or want to help make a difference for marine life for generations to come.

1003 Iowa Heights Road
Sedro Woolley, WA 98284

(360) 303-9338
info@Smelts.org

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