MARCH 18, 2016--The Marine Debris Program's Northeast Regional Coordinator, Keith Cialino, participated in the Maine Fishermen's Forum, held in Rockport, Maine, on March 2 through 4.

The forum was a great opportunity for the program to interact with commercial fishing industry members, as well as the other organizations exhibiting at the forum.

While spending time at the NOAA Fisheries table, the Northeast Regional Coordinator was asked many questions about marine debris by forum attendees. There was general interest in oceanic garbage patches, the impacts of debris on marine species, and what we can do in our everyday lives to prevent marine debris. It was also great to see other organizations like the Maine Coastal Program and the Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation promoting marine debris awareness. Additional conversations occurred with Maine Marine Patrol leadership about potential locations for derelict fishing gear disposal through the Fishing for Energy program.

To learn more about the event, please contact Keith.Cialino@noaa.gov.

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