Coastal Issues | Marine Debris | Activities

What Is OCRM Doing to Address Marine Debris?

Through its coastal management efforts, the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management (OCRM) addresses marine debris in a number of ways.

Coastal Zone Management Program

pounds of trash

Thousands of pounds of trash collect on our nation's beaches every year.

One of the main objectives within the Coastal Zone Management Act is "reducing marine debris entering the Nation's coastal and ocean environment by managing uses and activities that contribute to the entry of such debris." As such OCRM's Coastal Zone Management Program works with state CZM programs on developing marine debris projects at the state and local levels that can be funded through the CZMA. These projects can encompass a range of strategies for addressing marine debris, including removal, disposal and recycling; coordination and partnership development with local governments, businesses and industry; and education and outreach within coastal communities.

Volunteers remove derelict fishing gear that has washed ashore

Volunteers remove derelict fishing gear that has washed ashore. Derelict gear is a safety hazard to both humans and wildlife.

NOAA Marine Debris Program

The NOAA Marine Debris Program is a cross-NOAA collaboration that is undertaking a national and international effort focusing on identifying, removing, reducing, and preventing debris in the marine environment. As part of this collaboration, OCRM provides input on Marine Debris Program documents and activities. OCRM also supports the Marine Debris Program by coordinating with state coastal management programs to inform the states about the Marine Debris Program, and to inform the Marine Debris Program about state activities and expertise.

Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control Program

Under Section 6217 of the Coastal Zone Act Reauthorization Amendments of 1990, OCRM administers the Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control Program. This joint program between NOAA and EPA ensures that coastal states have the tools to address polluted runoff. Under the program, states must implement measures to promote recycling and proper waste disposal at marinas and encourage litter control to reduce the amount of trash that enters our coastal waters.

Clean Marina Initiative

The Clean Marina Initiative is a voluntary, incentive-based program that encourages marina operators and recreational boaters to protect engage in environmentally sound operating and maintenance procedures, such as recycling and proper waste disposal that will reduce the amount of marine debris. OCRM has encouraged many coastal states to develop Clean Marina Programs and continues to support state Clean Marina Programs through targeted Coastal Nonpoint Program grant funding. Between FY01 and FY05, funding support exceeded $2.8 million.

National Estuarine Research Reserve System

The National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRs), is a network of protected areas established for long-term research, education and stewardship. As estuarine stewards, several NERRs are involved in fishing line recycling programs and other outreach activities to reduce marine debris.

 

 

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