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A Day in the Life of a Marine Debris Technician in Papahānaumokuākea

With support from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, NOAA Marine Debris Program, private donors, and small grant foundations, the Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project (PMDP) continues the legacy large-scale marine debris removal efforts to protect the wildlife and habitats of Papahānaumokuākea. We interviewed PMDP Field Logistics Specialist Lauren Fraser and Lead Marine Debris Technician Max Lee to learn more about their unique and important work. They shared insights on the challenges of removing nets underwater, the protocols and considerations that guide their work in such a culturally significant space, and all of the late-night work that goes into making these missions a success.

A group of people stand on the deck of a ship wearing life jackets and hard hats.
Last updated Thursday, June 4, 2026 10:53am PDT