Marine Debris in the Mid-Atlantic

The Mid-Atlantic coast of the United States is a large, dynamic, and diverse place. Home to over 10,000 miles of coastline and spanning from Virginia to New York, it features major metropolitan areas, iconic bays and estuaries, and an incredible array of wildlife and habitats. The Mid-Atlantic provides a home, refuge, and nursery habitat for a variety of species and supports a vibrant coastal economy - including tourism, fisheries, and recreation. Unfortunately, marine debris has extensive impacts on the regional economy and the environment of the Mid-Atlantic. In partnership with local agencies, non-governmental organizations, researchers, and regional communities, the NOAA Marine Debris Program works to assess existing and emerging issues, implement prevention projects, plan removal efforts, and foster collaboration across the region.