MDMAP Marine Debris Item Categorization Guide

This guide is a tool for categorizing marine debris items during NOAA Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Project (MDMAP) surveys. Items are categorized and counted according to material and then item type. The examples of debris types within each category are meant to help ensure that items are categorized consistently across the project. Visit the Marine Debris Item Photo Gallery for more examples. If you have questions about the guide please contact NOAA Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Project staff at md.monitoring@noaa.gov.