MARCH 11, 2016--On March 7-9, 2016, the NOAA Marine Debris Program (MDP) participated in the second Virginia Marine Debris Summit held at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), College of William and Mary, in Gloucester Point, VA.

Summit attendees received updates on current marine debris science and trends and explored techniques and tools effective in enhancing knowledge, changing behavior and influencing policies that reduce marine debris. There were representatives from state agencies, many non-profit organizations, universities, and several industry representatives as well. This specialized group of experts shared 24 presentations covering the topics of derelict fishing gear, marine debris impacts on wildlife and habitat, abandoned and derelict vessels, consumer debris, and emergency planning, response and recovery from marine debris events, which included presentations from the MDP. Participants left the Summit with increased capacity to help accomplish the goals of the Virginia Marine Debris Reduction Plan, the first plan of its kind on the East Coast.

For more information, please contact Jason.Rolfe@noaa.gov.

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