The NOAA Marine Debris Program offers several nationwide, competitive funding opportunities for marine debris projects. These include: marine debris removal grants; prevention through education and outreach grants; and research grants. Learn more about these opportunities.
Great Lakes
Marine debris spoils the unique beauty of the Great Lakes region, a complex system of habitats, wetlands, rivers, and tributaries. Debris in the Great Lakes ranges from small items, including microplastics and other litter, to large abandoned and derelict vessels. No matter the size or type, debris harms the environment, wildlife and natural resources, creates health and safety hazards, and threatens the Great Lakes’ robust recreational fishing and boating economy. Since 2006, the NOAA Marine Debris Program has worked with partners in the region to prevent marine debris from entering the Great Lakes through education, outreach, and removal projects.

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Regional Coordinator
Sarah Lowe
sarah.lowe@noaa.gov
FAQs
Yes. Marine debris is a global issue and all types of marine debris are found in the Great Lakes, including microplastics.
Additional Resources
- Subscribe to the Great Lakes Regional Newsletter
- Office of Response and Restoration Weekly Report
- Communicating for a Clean Future: Ohio Marine Debris Challenge
- First Place Winner: 2020 Ohio PSA Competition (Video)
- Second Place Winner: 2020 Ohio PSA Competition (Video)
- Third Place Winner: 2020 Ohio PSA Competition (Video)
- First Place Winner: 2019 Ohio PSA Competition (Video)
- Second Place Winner: 2019 Ohio PSA Competition (Video)
- Trash Talk Video Series