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Communicating for a Clean Future: Ohio Marine Debris Challenge Winners

The Marine Debris Program is excited to announce the winners of the third annual Ohio Marine Debris Challenge! The contest is open every year to students in grades 9-12 who are enrolled in recognized public, private, and home schools in Ohio’s Lake Erie coastal communities.  Students complete lessons and create a public service announcement to help raise awareness of marine debris.

A group of people posing for a photo.
First and second place winners of the Ohio Marine Debris Challenge pose with Congresswoman Kaptur Image credit: NOAA.

On May 15, winning teams were recognized at an awards ceremony at Cedar Point Amusement Park, and were given recognition by members of congress, including Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, Congressman Jim Renacci, Senator Rob Portman, and Senator Sherrod Brown. This year’s winners include:


First Place - Perkins High School (Teacher: Ashlie Gowitzka): Ashley K., Madison L., Olivia S., Hannah S., and Abby S.


Second Place - Perkins High School (Teacher: Ashlie Gowitzka): Derick C., Noah H., Jacob V., and Chris W.


Third Place - Brunswick High School (Teacher: Laurie Hinkle): Alexis M., Bianca R., Jaden T., and Sarah Z.


To learn more about the contest and see the winning videos, visit the Marine Debris Program website


For more information, contact Sarah.Lowe@noaa.gov.

Last updated Tuesday, November 21, 2023 2:49pm PST