Interagency Marine Debris Coordinating Committee Quarterly Meeting
MAY 25, 2018 — The Interagency Marine Debris Coordinating Committee (IMDCC), chaired by the director of the Marine Debris Program (MDP), held its quarterly meeting on May 14, 2018.
The IMDCC is a multi-agency body responsible for streamlining the federal government’s efforts to address marine debris. Representatives meet to coordinate a comprehensive program of marine debris activities and make recommendations for research priorities, monitoring techniques, educational programs, and regulatory action.
The meeting focused on emergency response activities around marine debris, with the opportunity to reflect upon the 2017 hurricane season and consider improvements for the upcoming 2018 season. The MDP discussed response to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, along with plans to dedicate $18 million in supplemental funding to debris assessments, removal, and disposal in areas impacted by the 2017 hurricanes. The U.S. Coast Guard provided an overview of its emergency response authorities under the Stafford Act and examined remaining challenges during removal events.
IMDCC membership and reports are available on NOAA’s Marine Debris Program website. For more information, contact Lindsey.Palardy@noaa.gov.