Marine Debris Program Director Presents at National Association of Counties Conference
MARCH 9, 2020 — On March 1, the Director of the NOAA Marine Debris Program, Nancy Wallace, spoke to the Gulf States Counties and Parishes Caucus at their annual meeting during the National Association of Counties Conference.
The meeting was attended by county and parish government officials from Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Florida. The focus of this meeting was to discuss federal initiatives that impact the Gulf of Mexico. Nancy gave an overview of the issue of marine debris and its impacts, and shared specific examples of marine debris removal, prevention, research, and emergency response activities in the region.
County officials shared the challenges they face with removing large debris, such as abandoned and derelict vessels and fishing gear. They also discussed preparedness strategies for responding to debris after hurricanes.
For more information, please contact Nancy.Wallace@noaa.gov.