vvEPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office Of Water
Gulf Of Mexico Program
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529
EPA 800-K-93-002
September 1993
Marine Debris Action Agenda
For The Gulf Of Mexico
Framework for Action
Marine
Debris
Nutrient
Enrichment
Habitat
Degradation
Freshwater
Inflow
Coastal
Shoreline
Erosion
Public
Health
Living
Aquatic
Resources
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Executive Summary
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Gulf of Mexico contains ecological and commercial riches matched by few other
bodies of water in the world. Yet its blue-green waters belie the increasing
environmental threats that endanger those values. In recognition of these threats,
Regions IV and VI of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
which share jurisdiction over the five Gulf Coast States (Alabama, Florida, Louisiana,
Mississippi, and Texas), initiated the Gulf of Mexico Program in August of 1988.
The Gulf of Mexico Program's major purpose is to develop a comprehensive strategy
to protect and enhance the Gulfs environmental quality.
Members of the Gulf of Mexico Program quickly identified marine debris as one of
the most pressing environmental problems facing the Gulf. Unfortunately, discarded
cans, bottles, plastic gloves, and other trash are a common sight along the Gulf
shoreline, often averaging up to a ton a mile in some areas. The dramatic and
pervasive nature of such debris led Gulf of Mexico Program members to establish a
Marine Debris Subcommittee, charged with characterizing and proposing solutions to
the marine debris problem.
Composed of Federal, state, and local government agencies, public interest
organizations, citizens, scientific experts, and private industry representatives, the
subcommittee set out to develop goals, objectives, and specific activities to address
marine debris in the Gulf. Three goals were established: 1) eliminate the illegal
disposal and careless loss of solid waste; 2) eliminate existing debris; and 3) foster
pride, stewardship, and an increased understanding of the Gulfs marine and coastal
resources among the people and groups who use them.
The purpose of this Action Plan is to specify the primary activities needed to reduce,
and eventually eliminate, marine debris from Gulf of Mexico shores and waters. The
Marine Debris Subcommittee has been meeting for more than three years. In that
time, the Subcommittee has reviewed information and data collected by citizens and
scientists, discussed actions that can resolve the problem, and evaluated methods for
achieving and monitoring results.
Fifty-five activities, called "action items," describe specific tasks that have been
developed to meet the goals. Selected by the Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris
Subcommittee are those activities that are most significant and most achievable. This
document's list of action items is fairly comprehensive, but not exhaustive. It does
not reflect all of the activities necessary to eliminate the problem, nor does it list
activities in order of priority. This document begins an evolving process of Action
Plans in which action items are designated, implemented, and then reassessed as
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Executive Summary
progress in the Gulf is made. In the future, new action items will be developed to
meet the changing needs in the Gulf of Mexico.
Some of the listed activities are already underway but not yet completed. Others are
included because they will guide responsible Federal, state, and local government
agencies and private sector organizations in allocating resources where they are most
needed and in justifying future management strategies. This Action Plan should
prompt specific agencies and groups to become involved and coordinate needed
actions.
For the public, the Gulf of Mexico Action Plan should serve two purposes. First, it
should reflect the public will with regard to solving the problem. Second, it should
communicate what activities are planned for controlling marine debris and serve as a
baseline from which to measure the success of these activities over the next several
years.
This Action Plan is a living document. The Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris
Subcommittee anticipates that it will be continually revised and updated.
Consequently, it will be formally reviewed and revised in 1992.
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Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. OVERVIEW OF THE GULF OF MEXICO /
The Gulf Of Mexico - A Vast and Valuable Resource 1
The Gulf Of Mexico - A Resource at Risk 3
The Gulf of Mexico Program - Goafs and Structure 3
The Marine Debris Subcommittee 6
//. MARINE DEBRIS IN THE GULF OF MEXICO 8
What is Marine Debris? 8
Effects of Marine Debris 9
Status and Sources of Marine Debris 11
Ocean Based Sources 13
Land Based Sources 15
Other Sources 16
"Take Pride Gulf-Wide" Coastal Cleanup Results 17
A Gulf Coast State by State Review 18
Alabama 18
Florida 20
Louisiana 22
Mississippi 24
Texas 26
The "Dirty Dozen" 28
III. THE SOLUTION - A Framework For Action 36
International Level 36
International Legal Instruments 36
Other Activities 38
Federal Level 41
Federal Statutes 41
Interagency Coordination 44
Involved Federal Agencies 46
Regional Level 52
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan Hi
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Table of Contents
State Level 54
Alabama 54
Florida 54
Louisiana 56
Mississippi 57
Texas 55
User Groups 61
IV. THE UNFINISHED AGENDA 67
Goals 67
Strategies, Objectives, and Action Items 67
Monitoring and Assessment 68
Cooperation and Enforcement 72
Pollution Prevention 80
Public Outreach: Education and Involvement 86
V. CONCLUSIONS 91
BIBLIOGRAPHY 92
APPENDIX A Acronym Guide A-1
APPENDIX B Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris
Information Survey B-1
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan iv
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List of Tables
LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1 Summary of 1990 Beach Cleanup
Table 2.2 Results of Alabama Coastal Cleanup
Table 2.3 Composition of Alabama Beach Debris . .
Table 2.4 Results of Florida Coastal Cleanup
Table 2.5 Composition of Florida Beach Debris
Table 2.6 Results of Louisiana Coastal Cleanup . . .
Table 2.7 Composition of Louisiana Beach Debris . .
Table 2.8 Results of Mississippi Coastal Cleanup . .
Table 2.9 Composition of Mississippi Beach Debris .
Table 2.10 Results of Texas Coastal Cleanup
Table 2.11 Composition of Texas Beach Debris
Table 2.12 Number of Debris Items Collected
Gulf-Wide in 1990
Table 2.13 Alabama's 1990 Dirty Dozen
Table 2.14 Florida's 1990 Dirty Dozen
Table 2.15 Louisiana's 1990 Dirty Dozen
Table 2.16 Mississippi's 1990 Dirty Dozen
Table 2.17 Texas' 1990 Dirty Dozen
Table 3.1 State Efforts in Addressing Marine Debris
17
18
18
20
20
22
22
24
24
26
26
28
29
30
31
32
33
61
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List of Figures
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.1 Gulf of Mexico Program Committees 5
Figure 2.1 Composition of Alabama Beach Debris 19
Figure 2.2 Composition of Florida Beach Debris 21
Figure 2.3 Composition of Louisiana Beach Debris 23
Figure 2.4 Composition of Mississippi Beach Debris 25
Figure 2.5 Composition of Texas Beach Debris 27
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
VI
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Overview of the Gulf of Mexico Chapter I
I. OVERVIEW OF THE GULF OF MEXICO
The Gulf of Mexico - A Vast and Valuable Resource
Reaching northwest from Florida along the shores of Alabama, Mississippi, and
Louisiana, and then southwest along Texas and Mexico, the Gulf of Mexico is the
ninth largest body of water in the world. The Gulfs United States coastline measures
approximately 1,631 miles-longer than the entire Pacific coastline of California,
Oregon, and Washington. The Gulf itself extends more than 617,600 square miles
and contains one of the nation's most extensive barrier-island systems, 33 major river
systems, and 207 estuaries (Buff and Turner, 1987). A cornerstone of the region's
economy, the Gulf 's diverse and productive ecosystem provides a variety of valuable
resources and services, including transportation, recreation, fish and shellfish, and
petroleum and minerals.
Encompassing over five million acres (about half of the national total), the Gulfs
coastal wetlands serve as critical habitat for 75 percent of the United States' migrating
waterfowl (EPA, 1988). The Gulfs mudflats, salt marshes, mangrove swamps, and
barrier island beaches also provide year-round nesting and feeding grounds for
abundant numbers of gulls, terns, and shorebirds. Five species of endangered whales,
including four baleen whales and one toothed whale, are found in the Gulf. Gulf
waters also harbor the endangered American crocodile and five species of endangered
or threatened sea turtles (loggerhead, green, leatherback, hawksbill, and Kemp's
Ridley). The endangered West Indian (or Florida) manatee inhabits waterways and
bays along the Florida peninsula.
In addition, the Gulfs complex network of channels and wetlands provides habitat for
estuarine dependent commercial and recreational fisheries. The rich waters yield
approximately 2.4 billion pounds of fish and shellfish each year. Worth more than
$780 million at dockside, this harvest represents 40 percent of the total annual
domestic harvest of commercial fish (NOAA, Southeast Fisheries Service, 1988).
The Gulf boasts the largest and most valuable shrimp fishery in the United States, and
also produces more than half of the oysters harvested yearly in the nation (NOAA,
National Estuarine Inventory). Other Gulf fisheries include diverse shellfisheries for
crabs and spiny lobsters, and finfisheries for menhaden, herring, mackerel, tuna,
grouper, snapper, drum, and flounder. The entire U.S. Gulf of Mexico fishery yields
more finfish, shrimp, and shellfish annually than the South and Mid-Atlantic,
Chesapeake, and New England regions combined.
The Gulfs bountiful waters draw millions of sport fishermen and beachusers to their
shores each year. It is estimated that the Gulf supports more than one-third of the
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Overview of the Gulf of Mexico Chapter I
nation's marine recreational fishing, hosting 4 million fishermen in 1985 who caught
an estimated 42 million fish (Boesch, 1987). Popular catches include blue and white
marlin, trout, redfish, wahoo, shark, and swordfish. Tourism related dollars in the
Gulf Coast States contributed an estimated $20 billion to the economy (Gulf of
Mexico Program, 1990).
Gulf oil and gas production are equally valuable to the region's economy and are a
critical part of the nation's total energy supply. In 1990, more than 1,600 Outer
Continental Shelf (OCS) leases were in production, yielding approximately 90 percent
of U.S. offshore production. These OCS revenues annually contribute about $3
billion to the Federal Treasury (Minerals Management Service, 1991). The industry
employs some 30,000 people in the Gulf of Mexico.
Approximately 45 percent of U.S. shipping tonnage passes through Gulf ports, which
include three of the nation's busiest: Houston/Galveston, Tampa, and New Orleans.
According to EPA, vessel trips in and out of American Gulf ports and harbors
exceeded an estimated 600,000 trips in 1986. Additionally, the U.S. Navy is
implementing its modified Gulf Coast Homeporting Plan, designed to dock at least 25
vessels at three locations along the Gulf coast.
Thousands of people depend on the Gulf of Mexico to earn a living and flock to its
shores and waters for entertainment and relaxation. The temperate climate and
seemingly abundant resources are attracting more and more people. The region
currently ranks fourth in total population among the five U.S. coastal regions,
accounting for 13 percent of the nation's total coastal population. Although the Gulf
region is not as densely settled as others, it is experiencing the second fastest rate of
growth. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the Gulfs coastal
population is projected to increase by 22 percent by the year 2010, to almost 18
million people. Florida's population is expected to have skyrocketed by more than
200 percent by that year.
The Gulfs resources and environmental quality are not only affected by the millions
living and working in the region, but also by activities occurring throughout much of
the nation. Two thirds of the land area of the contiguous United States drains into the
Gulf, bringing with it potential environmental problems associated with pesticides,
fertilizers, toxic substances, and trash.
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Overview of the Gulf of Mexico Chapter I
The Gulf of Mexico - A Resource At Risk
Increasing population pressures mean increasing use of and demands on the Gulf of
Mexico. Until recently, the Gulf was considered too vast to be affected by pollution
and overuse. Recent trends indicate, however, serious long-term environmental
damage unless action is initiated today. Signs of increasing degradation throughout
the Gulf system include the following (Gulf of Mexico Program, 1989):
• Fish kills and toxic "red tides" were an increasing phenomenon in Gulf waters
during the 1980's.
• Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas are among those states that
discharge the greatest amount of toxic chemicals into coastal waters.
• Of the shellfish producing areas along the Gulf Coast, 3.4 million acres (57
percent) are permanently or conditionally closed.
• Louisiana is losing valuable coastal marsh habitat at the rate of 37 square
miles a year (Johnston, 1991).
• Almost two tons per mile of marine trash covered Texas beaches in 1988.
• Up to 3,000 square miles of oxygen deficient (hypoxia) bottom waters, known
as the "dead zone," have been documented off the Louisiana and Texas
coasts.
The Gulf of Mexico Program - Goals and Structure
Problems plaguing the Gulf cannot be addressed in a piecemeal fashion. These
problems and the resources needed to address them are too great. The Gulf of
Mexico Program was formed to pioneer a broad, geographic focus to address major
environmental issues in the Gulf before the damage is irreversible or too costly to
correct.
The program is part of a cooperative effort with other agencies and organizations in
the five Gulf States, as well as with the people and groups who use the Gulf. In
addition to EPA, other participating Federal government agencies include: National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS), U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(FWS), U.S. Soil Conservation Service (SCS), Minerals Management Service
(MMS), National Park Service (NPS), U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), National
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
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Overview of the Gulf of Mexico Chapter I
(COE), Department of Energy (DOE), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
By building on and enhancing programs already underway, as well as by coordinating
new activities, the Gulf of Mexico Program will serve as a catalyst for change. The
program's overall goals are to provide:
• A mechanism for addressing complex environmental problems that cross
Federal, state, and international jurisdictional lines;
• Better coordination among Federal, state, and local programs, thus increasing
the effectiveness and efficiency of the long-term effort to manage and protect
Gulf resources;
• A regional perspective to address research needs, which will result in
improved information and methods for supporting management decisions; and
• A forum for affected groups using the Gulf, for public and private educational
institutions, and for the general public to participate in the solution process.
The Gulf of Mexico Program is managed by three committees: a Policy Review
Board, a Technical Steering Committee, and a Citizens Advisory Committee.
Composed of 20 senior level representatives of state and Federal agencies and
representatives of the technical and citizens committees, the Policy Review Board
guides and reviews program activities. The Citizens Advisory Committee is
composed of five governor-appointed citizens who represent environmental, fishery,
agricultural, business/industrial, and development/tourism interests in each of the five
Gulf Coast States. This committee provides public input and assistance in publicizing
the Gulf of Mexico Program's goals and results. Representatives of state and Federal
agencies, the academic community, and the private and public sectors appointed by
state governors or by the Policy Review Board are members of the Technical Steering
Committee and provide technical support to the board.
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Overview of the Gulf of Mexico Chapter I
Figure 1.1 Gulf of Mexko Program Committees
Policy Review
IVtard
Technical Steering
Committee
Citizens Advisory
Committee
During the early stages of program development, the Gulf of Mexico Program
established nine technical subcommittees, each co-chaired by one Federal and one
state representative. Seven of the nine subcommittees address the following priority
environmental problems in the Gulf of Mexico:
• Habitat Degradation of such areas as coastal wetlands, seagrass beds, and
sand dunes;
• Freshwater Inflow (i.e., diversions of water away from coastal estuaries) for
use in flood control, navigation, and recreation, and to service growing
coastal populations;
• Nutrient Enrichment resulting from such sources as storm water, industries,
and agriculture;
• Toxic Substance and Pesticide contamination originating from industrial and
agriculturally based sources;
• Coastal and Shoreline Erosion caused by natural and human-related activities;
• Public Health threats from swimming in and eating seafood products coming
from contaminated water; and
• Marine Debris from land-based sources and marine commercial and
recreational sources.
Two of the program's nine subcommittees, the Public Education and Outreach
Subcommittee and the Data and Information Transfer Subcommittee, support the other
seven subcommittees.
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Overview of the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter I
The Marine Debris Subcommittee
Ms. Angela Farias, Director of Marine Conservation, Texas General Land Office,
and Mr. Robert Stender, Head of Environmental Compliance, Chief of Naval Air
Training, U.S. Navy, co-chair the Marine Debris Subcommittee. The other members
are:
Mr. Anthony Amos
Ms. Gail Bishop
Col. Floyd Buch
Ms. Cornelia Carrier
Ms. Barbara Coltharp
Mr. Barney Congdon
Ms. Cindy Cosper
Mr. Ed Fike
Mr. Jim Franks
Ms. Lucy Gibbs
Mr. Greg Gitschlag
Mr. Mark Hilzim
Mr. Phillip Hinesley
Ms. Ann Hodge
Mr. Bill Holland
Ms. Susan Jackson
Ms. Annie Jamison
Dr. Herb Kumpf
Ms. Dianne Lindstedt
Ms. Linda Maraniss
Mr. John Marshall
Ms. Karen Mitchell
Lt. Cdr. William Prosser
Ms. Laura Radde
Mr. Villere Reggio*
Mr. Dean Roome
Mr. Dave Ruple
Ms. Linda Skupien
Ms. Sharron Stewart
University of Texas
National Park Service
Port of Corpus Christi, TX
Citizens Advisory Committee representative
Louisiana Litter and Recycling Program
U.S. Minerals Management Service
Florida Department of Environmental Regulation
Lafourche Parish Council, LA
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, MS
Texas Shrimp Association
National Marine Fisheries Service
Gulf Coast Conservation Association
Alabama Department of Economic and
Community Affairs
Browning Ferris Industries, TX
Gulf of Mexico Program
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, HQ
Pascagoula Keep America Beautiful, MS
National Marine Fisheries Service
Louisiana Geological Survey
Center for Marine Conservation, TX
Alabama Department of Environmental
Management
National Marine Fisheries Service
U.S. Coast Guard
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6
U.S. Minerals Management Service
Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana
Bureau of Marine Resources, MS
MS-AL Sea Grant Consortium
Gulf Coast Fishermen's Environmental Defense
Fund, TX
'Previous Co-chair 1988-1991
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Overview of the Gulf of Mexico Chapter I
Mr. Ted Thorjussen West Gulf Maritime Association, TX
Mr. Harty C. Van Amoco Production Company, LA
Dr. Sharon Walker Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, MS
Mr. John "Fritz" Wettstein Florida Department of Natural Resources
Dr. Claude White Oxy Chem, TX
Cdr. Phil Wieczynski U.S. Coast Guard
The Marine Debris Subcommittee developed the following goals for addressing the
marine debris problem in the Gulf of Mexico:
• Eliminate the illegal disposal and careless loss of man-made solid waste in the
marine and coastal environments of the Gulf of Mexico;
• Eliminate existing debris from the marine and coastal environments of the
Gulf of Mexico; and
• Foster pride and stewardship and increase understanding of the marine and
coastal resources of the Gulf of Mexico (including the harmful effects of
marine debris) among the user groups of the Gulf of Mexico region.
The Gulf of Mexico Policy Review Board endorsed these goals on November 8,
1990. In developing this Action Plan, the Subcommittee has worked with EPA storm
water permit writers from EPA Regions IV and VI, marine debris and ocean dumping
coordinators from EPA Headquarters, an EPA diving program representative from
Region IV, and an environmental control representative from the Exxon Production
Company.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
II. MARINE DEBRIS IN THE GULF OF MEXICO
What is Marine Debris?
Marine debris is trash in the ocean--any manufactured object accidentally or purposely
put into the marine environment, such as cans, bottles, crates, rope, packing
materials, bags, sheeting, fishing lines and nets, net fragments, trawl webbing, cargo
strapping bands, six-pack rings, and other man-made items. Any item that is not
properly disposed of may become marine debris.
Historically, most marine debris is plastic. Because plastics are inexpensive,
lightweight, and durable, they have been considered the ideal material for many
products. World production of plastics more than doubled between 1975 and 1981.
In 1987, the U.S. alone produced more than 34.6 billion plastic bottles, more than 6
billion pounds of plastic trash bags, and some 201 million pounds of plastic for
disposable diapers (Center for Marine Conservation, 1988). Common items used by
beachusers, boaters, and maritime industries are made of plastic. It is not surprising
that plastics are estimated to compose one-half to two-thirds or more of all objects
sighted at sea or collected during beach cleanups.
The same qualities that make plastics so attractive also make them a particularly
dangerous type of marine debris. For example, beverage six-pack yokes can remain
intact in the marine environment for 450 years. Although scientists have created
partially degradable plastics, these are not necessarily a desirable alternative.
Partially degradable plastics can become brittle and shatter when exposed to sunlight,
creating many smaller pieces that blight the oceans and coast.
Until recently, the oceans were viewed as a convenient and boundless receptacle for
our trash, and as an attractive alternative to land disposal. To reverse this trend, in
1987, the U.S. Congress passed the Plastics Act and the United States also joined 39
other nations to ratify Annex V of the International Convention for the Prevention of
Pollution from Ships, known as MARPOL. MARPOL V bans the dumping of
plastics by vessels at sea and in navigable waters and also regulates the disposal of
other types of solid waste in the marine environment (also see page 34).
The ratification of MARPOL V was a necessary first step in eliminating plastic
marine debris. It gave the issue international recognition and sparked substantial
legislative and educational initiatives. Despite ongoing efforts to implement and
enforce MARPOL V, plastic trash from land-based sources and debris from illegal
ocean dumping continue to invade Gulf waters in substantial amounts.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
Marine debris in the Gulf is not limited to plastic, but includes wood, metal, rubber,
paper, glass, tar, and cloth as well. According to EPA, data gathered during
voluntary national beach cleanups in recent years suggest that approximately 30-45
percent of the objects collected in national beach cleanups were non-plastic items that
are not prohibited by MARPOL V.
Effects of Marine Debris
Marine debris kills and maims marine mammals, fish, shellfish, sea turtles, and birds.
According to EPA, an estimated 2 million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals die
on U.S. coasts each year from becoming entangled in marine debris or from ingesting
plastic mistaken for food. During the National Beach Cleanup Day in September
1990, there were 142 reports nationwide of wildlife affected by debris either through
apparent entanglement or ingestion.
Animals can mistake plastic pellets from resin spills and other physically degraded
plastic products for fish eggs or other food sources. Such plastics are
indigestible-debris can choke animals, block their digestive tracts, and cause
intestinal ulcers (Fowler, 1986). Some creatures accidentally feeding on plastic may
feel a false sense of fullness and, as a result, slowly starve to death. Animals
entangled in six-pack rings or discarded rope may strangle, suffocate, or exhaust
themselves while trying to escape. Entanglement can also hamper their ability to
catch food, and infections caused by cuts often lead to loss of limbs. Lost or
discarded fishing nets (called "ghost" nets) ensnare fish, crabs, diving seabirds, and
other forms of marine life for several years after the nets are released. Economic
losses are also important. While there have been no similar studies in the Gulf, New
England studies show that lobster valued at $250 million is lost each year to "ghost
traps" (Karter, 1973).
Scientists have documented an increasing number of injuries and deaths among fish,
marine and terrestrial mammals, birds, and turtles that have eaten or become
entangled in marine debris. According to one study (Balasz and Choy, 1985), sea
turtle populations are most harmed by consuming man-made debris floating in open
seas worldwide. A worldwide sea turtle literature review identified 79 reports of sea
turtles ingesting plastics and 60 reports of sea turtle entanglements, many of which
came from the Gulf of Mexico (and Wider Caribbean) area (Balasz, 1985). The most
common source of entanglement was monofilament fishing line. Plastic bags, sheets,
tar balls, and plastic particles were among the most common items ingested. These
items are commonly found on Gulf beaches. Evidence of the continuing problem of
entanglement occurred on March 11, 1991, when a female pygmy sperm whale died
after becoming stranded on Matagorda Island, just off the Texas coast. The whale
died from an infection caused by a plastic bag that she expelled from her mouth.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
Sea turtles readily eat plastic bags or plastic sheeting, which they mistake for a
favorite food-jellyfish. This is a particular concern because all sea turtle species
found in Gulf waters are listed as either threatened or endangered under the Federal
Endangered Species Act. National Marine Fisheries Service and University of Texas
scientists have examined the stomach contents of stranded (dead) sea turtles. Their
findings indicate that one-third to one-half of the endangered and threatened species
are ingesting plastic products or by-products, such as bottles, milk cartons, and water
jugs (EPA, 1991). In addition, dead turtles have been found with plastic bags and
fishing lines protruding from their shells.
Non-plastic products also harm sea turtles. For example, scientists who studied the
stomach contents of 111 stranded loggerhead turtles in the Gulf of Mexico found that
more than half contained man-made debris. Of the turtles that could be identified as
having died as a direct result of eating the debris, half had consumed non-plastic
debris. In 1988, other sea turtles were found that had been killed by glass and metal
(Plotkin and Amos, 1989).
Data collected from sea turtle strandings along the south Texas coast from 1986 to
1988 showed that the animals were significantly affected by having eaten marine
debris or-to a lesser extent-having become entangled in marine debris. The most
common item found to cause entanglement was fishing line, followed by trawl nets,
vegetable sacks, and other types of nets and rope (Center for Environmental
Education, 1987). All five sea turtle species inhabiting Gulf waters have been found
to consume or to become ensnared by marine debris.
Many scientists believe that plastic debris threatens many of the larger marine species,
and observers throughout the world have reported incidences of whale and dolphin
entanglement in fishing gear (Interagency Task Force, 1988). On New Year's Day,
1984, an infant pygmy sperm whale died, despite all efforts to save him, after
becoming stranded on a Galveston beach in Texas. A post mortem examination
(necropsy) revealed that he had eaten numerous large plastic bags, including a large
trash bag, a bread wrapper, and a com chip bag, which created a false sense of
fullness resulting in a slow death by starvation. In Florida, injuries and deaths caused
by plastic debris—plastic jugs, disposable surgeons' gloves, plastic bags, and
monofilament line—have been documented for four species of marine mammals
stranded along the State's coast: bottlenose dolphin, false killer whale, pygmy sperm
whale, and West Indian (Florida) manatee (Barros, Odell, and Patton, 1989). Debris
on beaches is also known to entangle terrestrial species, such as foxes and rabbits,
who have been observed entangled in nets and other plastic items (Fowler and
Merrill, 1986).
Of the world's 280 seabird species, 80, to date, are known to have ingested plastic
debris items ranging from small plastic pellets to polystyrene pieces to cigarette
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
lighters and toys. Seabirds are also prone to entanglement, especially in
monofilament fishing lines. For example, the Japanese salmon-gill net fishery, in
which more than 1,600 miles of net is set each night, is reported to drown over
250,000 seabirds each year during a two-month fishing season (King, 1984). An
early 1970's study in Florida reported that 80 percent of brown pelicans showed signs
of injury from entanglement in fishing gear (Heneman, 1988).
Marine debris also has more subtle ecological effects on the Gulf of Mexico. For
instance many materials sink soon after being dropped into the water or after they
collect heavy biological growth. According to EPA (1990), it is likely that pockets of
accumulated debris exist on the Gulf floor. Non-biodegradable material could disrupt
biological communities and adversely affect fisheries. Meanwhile, biodegradable
materials—such as food waste—create an oxygen demand and, in waters like the Gulf
that are already poor in oxygen, significantly decrease the oxygen available for
marine life.
Plastic or cloth can become caught in fishermen's nets and boat propellers, clog water
intakes, and disable engines, resulting in safety hazards and costly repairs. According
to the Minerals Management Service (Reggio, 1991), drums—which pose serious
threats to beachusers and snag trawling nets—typically cost between $1,400 and
$3,500 each to remove. Observers at Padre Island National Seashore see a new drum
about every two days.
Trash washing up on Gulf shores is clearly an eyesore and a health hazard, and is
detrimental to the economies of coastal states. Since 1962, 99 percent of visitor
complaints to National Park Service officials at Padre Island National Seashore in
Texas have been concerning beach litter. Rangers hear visitors claim they will never
return because of "filthy beaches" (Heneman, 1988). Texas estimates that its coastal
cities and counties spend more than $14 million a year to clean debris from beaches
(Heneman, 1988).
Status and Sources of Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Because it is enclosed on three sides and is infrequently flushed by tides and currents,
the Gulf of Mexico is a unique repository for marine debris. Trash entering its
waters stays there until winds, currents, and tides take it to shore, often far from its
original source. Debris ranging from tarballs to 55-gallon drums collects along Gulf
shores. Although MARPOL V provisions (see page 34) have no doubt reduced the
current disposal of and amount of plastics in the Gulf of Mexico, most of the debris
presently found is still disposable plastic products. These products come from a host
of ocean and land-based sources that are often difficult to pinpoint.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 11
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
More than 10 years ago, scientific monitoring, studies, and investigations began
evaluating the amounts, types, sources, and effects of marine debris in the Gulf. To
help characterize the sources~as well as the amounts and types~of debris washing
ashore, the Center for Marine Conservation initiated a Texas Coastal Cleanup in
September 1986 to remove and characterize trash from State beaches. In addition,
CMC developed a data collection system to be used by volunteers for that cleanup.
Today, CMC data cards include a checklist of 80 items of debris and sections for
listing the sources of debris found. Volunteers in 25 states and in several foreign
countries use the cards during the National Coastweeks beach cleanup
day held every fall. Data collected by these volunteers go into the National Marine
Debris Database and provide for much of what is currently known about marine
debris in the Gulf of Mexico.
Some types of debris collected, such as cigarette butts, come from a variety of
sources; sources of other items are easier to identify because they typify certain
activities or are commonly generated by certain industries. (For example, commercial
fishermen recognize plastic light sticks as items often used on their boats.) CMC,
with assistance from marine industry groups, has identified the following six general
categories of marine debris, each of which can be characterized by certain items:
• Galley-type wastes generated by vessels
• Recreational fishing and boating gear
• Commercial fishing wastes and gear
• Operational wastes produced by vessels and offshore petroleum operations
• Sewage-associated wastes indicating inadequate sewage-treatment practices
• Medical wastes—characterized by plastic syringes
Storm drains are also a significant source of marine debris because they allow almost
anything to wind up in oceans and on beaches. Nevertheless, these and other
land-based sources are not easily identifiable and thus cannot be ascertained from the
beach cleanup data cards.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 12
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
Ocean-Based Sources
Traditionally, ships in open water disposed of their wastes directly into the ocean. In
the early 1970's, long before legislation was passed prohibiting the disposal of trash
at sea, the National Academy of Sciences estimated that the worldwide rate of solid
waste disposal from ocean vessels and platforms was 14 billion pounds a year.
Before legislation, the world's merchant shipping fleet discarded approximately
4,800,000 metal, 300,000 glass, and 450,000 plastic containers at sea per day
(Horsman, 1982). U.S. Navy ships can generate more than three pounds of solid
waste per person per day, and some ships' crews number 5,000 people. Most of the
trash found on Gulf States' shorelines is traceable to offshore sources (CMC, 1991,
and Texas Coastal and Marine Council, 1985). The following is a list of types and
sources of ocean-based marine debris:
• Galley Wastes are items commonly used in the kitchens of ships at sea. They
include plastic trash bags, plastic milk and water jugs, plastic bleach containers,
vegetable sacks, egg cartons, and meat trays. Although these items are also used on
land, they are not things people typically take to the beach. When found on the
coasts in large quantities, such wastes generally come from ships, commercial fishing
vessels, recreational boaters, and offshore petroleum operations on rigs and platforms.
Galley wastes consistently have been a major source of marine debris in the Gulf.
While the galley waste national average for the 1990 National Beach Cleanup Day
was 3.3 percent of all trash collected, the percentage of these wastes for all the Gulf
Coast States except Florida was at least two to three times higher.
In the 1989 cleanup, Louisiana had the highest concentration of galley waste,
amounting to nearly 14 percent of its total trash. Plastic milk and water jugs were the
most common kinds of galley waste reported in that State for both the 1988 and 1989
cleanups. Texas ranked second nationally for 1988 and 1989 (with 10 percent of its
total trash being galley wastes), and came in fourth in 1990. Alabama and
Mississippi have also had comparatively high levels of galley wastes during all three
years.
• Recreational boaters and fishermen also produce significant amounts of trash-at
least one and one-half pounds of solid waste per person per day-according to the
United States Coast Guard. Items typically contributing to marine debris are floats,
lures, and plastic monofilament fishing line. This fishing line is the most common
cause of wildlife entanglement, accounting for more than one-third of all reports on
the 1990 National Beach Cleanup Day. The Florida Coastal Cleanup has focused on
the collection of monofilament fishing line. In 1990, 579 pounds of fishing line were
collected and sent to manufacturers for recycling.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 13
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
Nationally, recreational fishing debris is most prevalent in Texas and Louisiana. In
the 1989 cleanup, Texas replaced Maine nationally as having the highest concentration
of boating and fishing waste in the United States, with rope being the most common
item. In 1990, Texas remained above the national average (ranking second
nationally), with 1.5 percent of its debris being boating and fishing wastes. Louisiana
ranked third in the nation for such debris in the 1990 cleanup.
• Commercial fishermen generate marine debris that is probably the most easily
identified and the most obvious, particularly in Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas.
Items commonly attributed to commercial fishermen include operational wastes, such
as plastic salt bags, plastic fishing nets, light sticks, plastic rope, rubber gloves that
are lost or thrown overboard, beverage and food containers, and food wrappers. The
worldwide fishing industry dumped an estimated 150,000 tons of plastic into the
ocean each year before legislation prohibited this practice. Metal and wood traps and
buoys can be separated during storms or by propellers and drift in the ocean for
unknown periods of time. In the lobster fishery on the Florida Gulf coast, 25 percent
of the 96,000 traps in use were estimated to have been lost in 1985 (Center for
Environmental Education, 1987).
On the 1990 National Beach Cleanup Day, four of the five Gulf States-Louisiana,
Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama—reported percentages of commercial fishing wastes
as percentages of total debris that were above the national average. Percentages for
Texas (7.5 percent) and Louisiana (7.4 percent) were twice as high as those for most
states. The most common commercial fishing waste items found in the Gulf were
plastic light sticks and rubber gloves—typically used by shrimp fishermen. In
addition, commercial fishing nets were responsible for 16 percent of all wildlife
entanglements reported during the 1990 cleanup.
• Other forms of ocean-based debris are classified as operational wastes because
they typically originate from offshore maritime and petroleum operations. Typical
items are plastic sheeting, strapping bands, fluorescent light tubes, wooden crates,
wooden pellets, glass light bulbs, hard hats, and metal drums. Because of extensive
petroleum and shipping activities, all Gulf States typically generate high
concentrations of operational waste. During the 1989 National Cleanup Day, plastic
strapping bands were the most common type of operational waste in Florida and
Texas, while glass light bulbs were the most common kind found in Alabama,
Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Land-Based Sources
Land-based sources of marine debris include beachusers; sewage overflows that carry
refuse from homes, restaurants, and factories; illegal disposals; and storm water that
carries litter from the streets. It is difficult to trace many domestic items (e.g. metal
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 14
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
cans and plastic and glass bottles) to a single source. Items found on a south Texas
beach could be the remains of a nearby resident's picnic, or could have originated
from a careless boater far up the Mississippi River or a litterer in Houston. The
following are the major land-based sources and generators of marine debris:
• Users of Beaches, Docks, & Marinas - EPA estimates that about 25 percent of the
trash on Gulf Coast beaches is left by beachusers, an amount that can be expected to
increase as the population grows.
• Storm Water - Rainwater washes pollutants, dirt, land debris, and refuse from city
streets into storm drains. Although many people do not realize it, these curbside
drains are direct links to rivers and oceans many miles away. Just about everything
(from plastic cups to sneakers) found along streets and gutters can be swept into the
Gulf.
• Sewage - In some areas, storm water systems are connected directly to sewer
pipes. As a result, although most sewerage systems are required to screen out large,
nondegradable objects, periods of heavy rainfall cause the capacity of these systems to
be exceeded. This causes raw sewage to be discharged into local waterways. The
presence of tampon applicators and latex condoms typically indicate that sewage is
entering marine areas. These items are prevalent on south Texas beaches and can be
attributed to either beachusers or inadequate sewerage systems, especially those in
Mexico because most sewage from coastal Mexican cities is untreated (Heneman,
1988). During the 1990 National Beach Cleanup Day, sewage-associated wastes in
the Gulf were small compared to other areas nationwide. However, medical wastes
were prevalent in Louisiana and Texas.
• Solid Waste Disposal/Landfills - Trash shipments and poor siting of landfills
contribute trash to waterways. Some landfills are located along coastal waterways
where lightweight litter, such as plastic, may blow off during transport or be exposed
by erosion or storms on closed landfill sites. Private landfills and illegal dumping,
including the illegal dumping of medical wastes, also contribute to debris problems.
• Rivers and Streams - Rivers and streams may also play a major role in carrying
debris into the Gulf of Mexico from land-based sources, although the relative amounts
are unknown.
• Floating Structures - Another source of marine debris is large chunks of
polystyrene foam supporting floating docks and marina structures. When these chunks
of foam begin to break apart, they become a marine debris problem.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 15
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
• Improper Management Practices - Items targeted for commercial and
manufacturing use, such as resin pellets, can be accidentally released into the marine
environment due to improper containers, storage, and shipping practices.
Other Sources
Because it is difficult to pinpoint specific sources for some items of marine debris,
beach cleanup volunteers are usually asked to record items bearing labels or company
names. According to CMC, volunteers reported that more than 1000 different items
of debris found on Texas beaches in the 1989 cleanup came from at least 33
countries, including Russia and China. Texas has always claimed the largest amount
and assortment of "international" debris of all the U.S. states, reporting 171 items
from 18 different countries for the 1990 National Beach Cleanup Day.
Of debris from foreign countries, debris from Mexico was the most common kind
found on Texas beaches, and, on the 1989 National Beach Cleanup Day, included at
least 50 plastic bottles of "El Pinador" cleaner, 100 plastic motor oil bottles, and 206
bleach bottles. Foreign labels, however, do not always mean that the items come from
foreign ships, just as a particular company is not always responsible for products or
containers ending up in the ocean. Many of the foreign items found on Gulf Coast
beaches can be bought in the U.S. or are brought into the country by U.S. citizens.
CMC cautions that specific items and sources of marine debris may vary from those
described in the preceding pages, depending on the part of the country in which the
data were gathered. Nevertheless, data collected during National Beach Cleanup Days
are helpful in making comparisons between states, and also show annual trends in
composition, types, and sources of marine debris.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 16
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
"Take Pride Gulf-Wide" Coastal Cleanups Results
Of the more than 1 million pounds (~ 475 tons) of marine debris gathered on Gulf
Coast beaches in the 1988 Beach Cleanup Day, more than 68 percent was made of
plastic. In 1989, 21,410 volunteers collected 345 tons of trash from 1,056 miles of
Gulf coast beaches in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida; most was
plastic. (A third of the total was glass, paper, and metals. Five percent of the items
were made of wood, rubber and cloth.) In 1990, 1,227,297 pounds (~ 613 tons) of
trash were collected from 1,379 miles of Gulf beaches in Texas, Louisiana,
Mississippi, Alabama, and the Gulf coast of Florida by 36,643 volunteers. In 1990,
63.9 percent of the trash collected was plastic.
Table 2.1 Summary of 1990 Beach Cleanup
Summary of 1990 Beach Cleanup
State
Alabama
Florida*
Louisiana
Mississippi
Texas
Volunteers
2,618
10,340
6,000
1,863
15,822
Miles
Cleaned
62
949
76
106
186
Pounds
of Debris
74,000
392,757
250,000
44,000
466,540
Pounds
per Mile
1,194
413
3,289
415
2,508
*Gulf coast Florida counties only.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
17
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
A Gulf Coast State by State Review
The following charts depict the results of the 1989 and 1990 cleanup days for each of
the five Gulf Coast States. All information is based on annual National Beach
Cleanup results from CMC.
ALABAMA COASTAL CLEANUP
Table 2.2 Results of Alabama Coastal Cleanup
Results
Volunteers
Miles Cleaned
Pounds of Debris
Pounds per Mile
Number of Items
Tons
1989
725
52
12,000
231
40,095
6
1990
2,618
62
74,000
1,194
37
Table 2.3 Composition of Alabama Beach Debris
Composition of Beach Debris
Item
Plastic
Metal
Paper
Glass
Wood
Rubber
Cloth
%in89
62.43
12.59
11.47
8.74
2.19
1.59
0.99
%in90
64.25
11.98
9.70
8.44
2.50
1.97
1.14
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Figure 2.1 Composition of Alabama Beach Debris—1990
Cloth 1,14
Rubier 1.97
¥ood 2,50
Glass 8,44
Plastic 64.25
9. 70
QPlastic 64.as
• Hetal 11-38
EJPapor
[D Glass
• food
• Pulber
• Cloth
2 50
1.97
1.14
Paper 9.70
Metal 11. 98
Source: Center for Marine Conservation, 1991
Alabama's coastal cleanup campaign has been dubbed "Get the trash out of the
splash." In both the 1989 and 1990 cleanups, more than half of all marine debris
collected from Alabama beaches was plastic.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
19
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
FLORIDA COASTAL CLEANUP
Table 2.4 Results of Florida Coastal Cleanup
Results
Volunteers
Miles Cleaned
Pounds of Debris
Pounds per Mile
Number of Items
Tons
1989
14,632
911
395,440
434
529,401
200
1990
18,413
1,050
399,666
381
704,780
200
1990-Gulfcoast
10,340
949
392,757
414
376,590
196
*Gulf coast Florida is calculated based on data from Monroe through Escambia counties.
Table 2.5 Composition of Florida Beach Debris
Composition of Beach Debris
Item
Plastic
Metal
Paper
Glass
Wood
Rubber
Cloth
% in89
64.85
11.36
9.94
8.71
2.23
1.49
1.31
%in90
63.83
11.90
10.33
8.83
2.49
1.48
1.13
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
20
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Figure 2.2 Composition of Florida Beach Debris—1990
Cloth, 1. 13
Rubber 1.48
¥ood 2,49
Glass 10.33
Plastic 63.83
D Plastic S3.es
•ttetml 11.90
8 83
10.39
3.4S
HO-lass
• food
• Bubtur
I Cloth
1.13
Paper 8.83
Metal 11. 90
Source; Center for Marine Conservation, 1991
Florida's cleanup crews have adopted the motto "Be a Beach Buddy." During the
1989 cleanup day, volunteers found 467 miles of monofilament line on 911 miles of
coastline, an increase from 305 miles of line in 1988. Crews in 1989 also discovered
15 dead animals—sea turtles, birds, and an opossum—entangled in fishing line.
Based on miles covered and number of volunteers, Florida boasted the largest cleanup
in 1990 of any state in the nation. Crews found 579 miles of discarded fishing line,
as well as 93 items from 29 different foreign countries. Twenty birds, sea turtles,
crabs, and fish were found entangled in marine debris. Of these, 8 birds were still
alive and released. Also, although medical waste was only 0.09 percent of the total,
volunteers collected 608 syringes and other medical waste items.
Typically, Florida reports the highest percentage Gulf-wide of trash attributable to
passenger cruise lines.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
21
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
LOUISIANA COASTAL CLEANUP
Table 2.6 Results of Louisiana Coastal Cleanup
Results
Volunteers
Miles Cleaned
Pounds of Debris
Pounds per Mile
Number of Items
Tons
1989
3,450
67
110,000
1,462
76,870
55
1990
6,000
76
250,000
3,289
125
Table 2.7 Composition of Louisiana Beach Debris
Composition of Beach Debris
Item
Plastic
Metal
Paper
Glass
Wood
Rubber
Cloth
% in 89
70.53
10.13
9.02
5.48
2.21
1.38
1.26
%in90
69.02
10.61
9.28
5.14
2.51
2.24
1.21
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Figure 2.3 Composition of Louisiana Beach Debris--1990
Plastic 69.02
Cloth 1.21
Rubber 2,24
Vood 2.51
Paper 5.14
Metal 9,28
QPlastic es.02
• Glass 10 61
Q Metal 9.28
5.14
3.51
3 34
1.21
• food
Cloth
Glass 10.61
Source: Center for Marine Conserv»tion, 1991
The motto of cleanup crews in Louisiana was the regional slogan, "Take Pride
Gulf-Wide." Louisiana has doubled its participation in beach cleanups from its first
in 1987. Looking back to this State's 1987 cleanup results, 3,300 volunteers gathered
200 tons (90,000 items) of debris from 65 miles of coastline. Plastics made up 64
percent of all debris that year. Polystyrene cups accounted for nearly 10 percent of
all items collected. Fishing gear was the largest identifiable source of debris, relative
to the categories of cargo, galley, and operational wastes.
In 1990, several fish, a turtle, and a dead water moccasin were discovered entangled
in plastic sheets, rope, wire, and fishing line. Volunteers found many dead animals
including a rat, two catfish, 80 fish, four dolphins, four crabs, two sharks, nine
turtles, and one cow.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
23
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
MISSISSIPPI COASTAL CLEANUP
Table 2.8 Results of Mississippi Coastal Cleanup
Results
Volunteers
Miles Cleaned
Pounds of Debris
Pounds per Mile
Number of Items
Tons
1989
1,760
100
62,000
620
73,853
31
1990
1,863
106
44,000
415
22
Table 2.9 Composition of Mississippi Beach Debris
Composition of Beach Debris
Item
Plastic
Metal
Paper
Glass
Wood
Rubber
Cloth
% in 89
54.85
14.63
13.03
12.47
2.43
1.54
1.04
%in90
58.94
10.30
13.90
11.72
2.68
1.50
0.95
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Figure 2.4 Composition of Mississippi Beach Debris—1990
Cloth 0.95
Rubber 1.50
Vood 2.68
Paper 10.30
Glass 11.72
Plastic 58.94
Metal 13.90
QPlastic 51.94
• Metal 13.90
B Glass 11.72
Q]Pap«r 10.30
• »ood 3 01
•fiabbtr 1 sa
• Cloth 0.95
Source: Center for Marine Coiuervttion, 1991
Mississippi volunteers encourage others to "Lend a Hand in the Sand. Keep Coastal
Mississippi Waters and Shorelines Clean." Looking back at 1987, 100 volunteers
collected 3.5 tons, or 3,655 items, of debris from six miles of beach. Plastics made
up 52 percent of the total that year. In 1988, cleanup crews removed an estimated
3,000 pounds of debris per mile, more than any other state collected-except Georgia
and Texas. Although it is difficult to account for the decrease in 1990 to 415 pounds
per mile, it may be a result of improved and more frequent beach cleaning and the
passage of the Mississippi Marine Litter Act in 1989.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
25
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
TEXAS COASTAL CLEANUP
Table 2.10 Results of Texas Coastal Cleanup
Results
Volunteers
Miles Cleaned
Pounds of Debris
Pounds per Mile
Number of Items
Tons
1989
8,751
164
316,000
1,927
448,557
158
1990
15,822
186
466,540
2,508
233
Table 2.11 Composition of Texas Beach Debris
Composition of Beach Debris
Item
Plastic
Metal
Paper
Glass
Wood
Rubber
Cloth
%in89
69.23
10.74
8.14
6.69
2.17
1.86
1.18
%in90
71.95
6.12
7.00
9.25
2.46
2.18
1.04
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Figure 2.5 Composition of Texas Beach Debris-1990
Cloth 1.04
Rubber 2.18
Vood 2,
Paper
^—•—~~^. r -I- a =» i> J. L;
OPlastlc 71.95
Q] Glass 9.25
flBttal 7.00
ED Paper a.u
TOOd
2 <
Cloth 1.04
Metal 7.00
Glass 9.25
Source: Center for Marine Conservation, 1991
Lone Star State volunteers, whose motto is "Be a Beach Buddy," have found
everything from bikini bottoms to refrigerators on Texas beaches. Many items
collected on Texas beaches typically bear foreign labels and company insignia,
indicating that much of the debris is generated by offshore sources. Since the first
Texas Coastal Cleanup in 1986, volunteers have collected more than one ton of trash
per mile. That year 124 tons were collected from 122 miles of beach. Due to the
development of a data card and the analyses of the debris recorded by CMC, the
Texas cleanup was the most documented cleanup ever held.
In 1987, galley wastes made up the highest percentage of debris found on relatively
inaccessible Matagorda Island, indicating that the waste was generated offshore. In
the 1989 cleanup, volunteers found several dead catfish entangled in plastic, a dead
drum fish caught in small plastic strapping bands, and other dead fish ensnared in
strands of rope and fishing line. In 1990, six crabs, six fish, three seagulls, and two
blue herons were found entangled in marine debris (usually fishing line or rope). One
dead fish was found with a plastic bag in its gills. Although there were quite a few
reports of dead animals, they cannot all be positively attributed to marine debris.
Guff of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
27
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
The "Dirty Dozen"
In 1988, CMC began ranking the items most collected and reported by cleanup
volunteers. The most abundant items found in the cleanups are known as the "Dirty
Dozen." A compilation of all the Gulf States' Dirty Dozen for 1990 yielded the
following results:
Table 2.12 Number of Debris Items Collected Gulf-Wide in 1990
Number of Debris Items
Collected Gulf-Wide in 1990*
Item
cigarette filters
plastic pieces
foamed plastic pieces
plastic caps and lids
plastic bags and wrappers
plastic cups, utensils, straws
glass beverage cans
metal beverage cans
paper pieces
foamed plastic cups
glass pieces
plastic rope
plastic beverage bottles
metal bottle caps
miscellaneous plastic bottles
TOTAL
Number
115,852
107,443
80,250
73,594
69,930
68,440
68,406
55,136
46,467
37,396
31,609
30,158
27,351
14,668
8,565
835,265
Percent of
Total
13.88
12.87
9.61
8.81
8.37
8.19
8.19
6.60
5.56
4.47
3.78
3.61
3.27
1.76
1.03
100.00
"This table reflects data collected from the entire State of Florida.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Table 2.13 Alabama's 1990 Dirty Dozen
Alabama's 1990 Dirty Dozen
i.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
plastic caps and lids
foamed plastic pieces
cigarette filters
plastic pieces
plastic beverage bottles
paper pieces
metal beverage cans
glass beverage bottles
foamed plastic cups
plastic cups and utensils
glass pieces
metal bottle caps
TOTAL
Total
Number
Reported
4,089
4,006
3,844
3,235
2,768
2,600
2,529
2,527
2,269
1,752
1,654
1,640
32,913
Percent of
Total Debris
Collected
6.92
6.78
6.50
5.47
4.68
4.40
4.28
4.28
3.84
2.96
2.80
2.77
55.69
In 1989, plastic caps and lids were also ranked at the top of the dirty dozen list, with
2,683 items constituting 6.69 percent of the total debris collected.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Table 2.14 Florida's Dirty Dozen
Florida's 1990 Dirty Dozen
i.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
cigarette filters
plastic pieces
glass beverage bottles
foamed plastic pieces
metal beverage cans
plastic straws
paper pieces
plastic caps and lids
foamed plastic cups
plastic food bags & wrappers
plastic cups and utensils
plastic beverage bottles
TOTAL
Total
Number
Reported
77,486
44,393
44,211
42,909
40,747
29,231
28,672
28,198
27,016
27,012
22,676
17,035
429,586
Percent of
Total Debris
Collected
11.05
6.33
6.30
6.12
5.81
4.17
4.09
4.02
3.85
3.84
3.23
2.77
61.25
*This table reflects data collected from the entire State of Florida.
In 1989, 47,533 plastic cups, spoons, forks, and straws were collected in Florida, and
ranked first in that State's Dirty Dozen. Those items were 8.02 percent of the total
debris collected that year.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Table 2.15 Louisiana's 1990 Dirty Dozen
Louisiana's 1990 Dirty Dozen
i.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
plastic pieces
foamed plastic pieces
plastic caps and lids
plastic rope
metal beverage cans
glass beverage bottles
plastic milk & water gallon jugs
foamed plastic cups
plastic food bags and wrappers
plastic beverage bottles
miscellaneous plastic bottles
glass pieces
TOTAL
Total
Number
Reported
10,537
9,170
8,726
5,621
5,535
5,487
5,187
4,829
4,020
3,817
3,378
2,990
69,297
Percent of
Total Debris
Collected
7.79
6.78
6.46
4.16
4.09
4.06
3.84
3.57
2.97
2.96
2.80
2.21
51.26
Plastic caps and lids topped Louisiana's 1989 Dirty Dozen list, with 5,620 items (7.31
percent) reported.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Table 2.16 Mississippi's 1990 Dirty Dozen
Mississippi's 1990 Dirty Dozen
i.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
metal beverage cans
cigarette filters
foamed plastic pieces
glass pieces
plastic food bags & wrappers
plastic pieces
glass beverage bottles
plastic caps and lids
plastic beverage bottles
paper pieces
foamed plastic cups
plastic cups and utensils
TOTAL
Total
Number
Reported
6,325
4,710
4,327
4,038
3,946
3,940
3,904
3,741
3,731
3,294
3,282
2,188
47,426
Percent of
Total Debris
Collected
6.93
5.16
4.74
4.43
4.33
4.32
4.28
4.10
4.09
3.61
3.60
2.40
52.00
Mississippi reported paper pieces as the top marine debris item in 1989. Cleanup
crews reported a total of 5,101 paper pieces, which comprised 6.91 percent of the
total debris collected.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Chapter II
Table 2.17 Texas' 1990 Dirty Dozen
Texas' 1990 Dirty Dozen
i.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
plastic pieces
cigarette filters
plastic caps and lids
plastic rope
plastic food bags & wrappers
glass pieces
foamed plastic pieces
metal beverage cans
plastic straws
glass beverage bottles
paper pieces
miscellaneous plastic bags
TOTAL
Total
Number
Reported
45,338
29,812
28,840
24,537
23,121
22,927
19,838
13,028
12,593
12,277
11,901
11,831
256,043
Percent of
Total Debris
Collected
9.46
6.22
6.02
5.08
4.82
4.78
4.14
2.72
2.63
2.56
2.48
2.47
53.38
Plastic pieces were also the top offender in Texas in 1989. In that year, they
comprised 9.02 percent of the total.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
Conclusion: Marine Debris and the Health of the Gulf Coast
Marine debris in the Gulf of Mexico is not only a health hazard, but is also
detrimental to the economies of coastal states and damaging to the marine
environment and its inhabitants. These negative effects are evidenced by the
following examples:
• All five sea turtle species inhabiting Gulf waters have been found to consume
or to become ensnared by marine debris. The most common item found to
cause entanglement was fishing line, followed by trawl nets, vegetable sacks,
and other types of nets and rope (Center for Environmental Education, 1987).
• Drums, which can pose serious health threats to beachusers and snag trawling
nets, typically cost between $1,400 and $3,500 each to remove (Reggio,
MMS, 1991).
• Park rangers at the Padre Island National Seashore in Texas hear visitors
claim they will never return because of "filthy beaches" (Heneman, 1988).
• In Florida, injuries and deaths caused by plastic debris—plastic jugs,
disposable surgeons' gloves, plastic bags, and monofilament line—have been
documented for four species of marine mammals stranded along the State's
coast: bottlenose dolphin, false killer whale, pygmy sperm whale, and West
Indian (Florida) manatee (Barros, Odell, and Patton, 1989).
As a result of these increasing indicators of the marine debris problem, monitoring,
studies, and investigations have begun to evaluate the amounts, types, sources, and
effects of marine debris in the Gulf. The Center for Marine Conservation developed
a data collection card to be used for volunteers in beach cleanups in order to help
characterize the sources of marine debris. The data from all beach cleanups have
shown that items most likely to entangle marine life or to be eaten by it-plastic bags,
pellets, and fishing line-are commonly found types of marine debris on the Gulf
coastline. Conclusions drawn from Gulf beach cleanups are not dissimilar from those
yielded by studies conducted in other parts of the world, as described earlier.
The sources of marine debris can be divided into two main categories: 1)
ocean-based sources-including galley wastes, recreational boaters and fishermen,
commercial fishermen, and operational wastes; and 2) land-based sources-including
users of beaches, docks, and marinas, storm water, sewage, solid waste
disposal/landfills, rivers and streams, floating structures, and improper management
practices.
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Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico Chapter II
Based on the evidence of the growing negative effects of marine debris in the Gulf
and the characterization studies which have determined sources of the problem, the
Gulf of Mexico Program has developed a framework for action and proposed
activities needed to begin to solve the marine debris problem. This information is
provided in the chapters which follow.
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The Solution - A Framework for Action Chapter III
III. THE SOLUTION - A FRAMEWORK FOR ACTION
This section describes the legal and institutional framework currently in place to
address marine debris in the Gulf of Mexico. It also outlines some of the positive
efforts already underway at the international, Federal, regional, and state levels, as
well as those undertaken by private organizations and industry. A list of marine
debris projects completed or underway in the Gulf of Mexico is included in Appendix
B, the "Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris Information Survey." The survey was
requested and funded by the Gulf of Mexico Program and prepared for the Texas
Adopt-A-Beach Program by CMC.
International Level
International Legal Instruments
MARPOL
In 1987, the U.S. joined 39 other nations to ratify Annex V of the International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, MARPOL, which bans the
dumping of plastics by vessels at sea and in navigable waters as well as regulates the
disposal of other types of solid waste. In addition, MARPOL requires all ports to
supply or make available adequate disposal facilities. The Marine Plastic Pollution,
Research, and Control Act of 1987 (MPPRCA) is the U.S. law that implements
Annex V. The law became effective December 31, 1988, and USCG has issued
implementing regulations under the Act.
MARPOL V regulates, but does not prohibit, ocean disposal of non-plastic debris.
According to the Treaty, areas that are more susceptible to pollution by trash due to
special oceanographic and environmental conditions may be designated as "special
areas." Such a designation provides extra environmental protection by prohibiting the
dumping of materials in addition to plastic. A Special Area designation for the Gulf
has been accepted as of July 1991. The implementation process is currently
underway and will include a study of reception facilities around the Wider Caribbean
Region (the Wider Caribbean area includes the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico,
the Straits of Florida, and the coastal lands of 25 nations that border these waters).
Special Area designation of the Gulf means that ships will not be permitted to dump
any trash except ground food wastes into Gulf waters.
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Contact: Marine Environment Division
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
4 Albert Embankment
London SE1 7SR
United Kingdom
London Dumping Convention
The Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and
Other Matter, known as the London Dumping Convention, is an international
agreement concerned solely with the dumping of wastes into the marine environment.
The agreement bans the international dumping of biological, chemical, and
radiological agents of war and regulates the dumping of other hazardous compounds.
The three countries bordering the Gulf of Mexico (Cuba, Mexico, and the United
States) are contracting parties.
Contact: Marine Environment Division
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
4 Albert Embankment
London SE1 7SR
United Kingdom
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea was adopted in Montego Bay
in 1982, and provides a framework of principles for national rights and obligations in
relation to ocean use—including environmental protection. It encourages states and
international organizations to participate in an integrated management system for the
oceans. Provisions include obligations for territorial seas and ports of coastal states.
Although the Law of the Sea Convention has not yet entered into force, its principles
(except those relating to deep-seabed mining) have obtained widespread support.
Therefore, it can serve as an important vehicle for promoting the protection and
preservation of the marine environment. As of June 1989, two countries bordering
the Gulf of Mexico have signed the Law of the Sea Convention: Cuba and Mexico.
Contact United Nations Office for Ocean Affairs and the Law
of the Sea (UNOALOS)
United Nations Headquarters, U.N. Plaza
New York, NY 10017
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Convention for the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment of the
Wider Caribbean Region
The Convention for the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment of
the Wider Caribbean Region was adopted in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, in 1983.
Under this Convention, contracting parties are obligated to prevent, reduce, and
control pollution from ships, land-based sources, airborne sources, and seabed
activities. The parties are also required to protect unique and fragile ecosystems and
the habitats of endangered species, and to engage in technical assistance programs,
information and data exchange, and regional cooperation during marine emergencies.
In addition, the nations are committed to developing liability and compensation
procedures for damage resulting from pollution incidences. All three countries
bordering the Gulf of Mexico (Cuba, Mexico, and the United States) have ratified the
Cartagena Convention.
Contact: Regional Coordinating Unit
UNEP Caribbean Environment Programme (CEP)
14-20 Port Royal St.
Kingston, Jamaica
Other Activities of the United Nations and Other International Agencies
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
The Regional Seas Programme links countries that share a common sea so that they
can cooperate with and aid each other in solving marine pollution problems. The
Gulf of Mexico enjoys special protection through this program under the Convention
for the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment, Wider Caribbean
Region Action Plan (see above).
Contact: Regional Coordinating Unit
UNEP Caribbean Environment Programme (CEP)
14-20 Port Royal St.
Kingston, Jamaica
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Food and Agriculture Organization
The fisheries division of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization
collects information on marine animal entanglement and helps gather data on marine
debris and pollution issues.
Contact: Fisheries Division
FAO
Via delle Terme di Caracella
00100 Rome, Italy
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
The IMO, established in 1958, is a specialized United Nations agency that examines
international shipping issues involving safety and pollution. IMO was responsible for
several conferences resulting in international agreements on oil pollution control from
ships, eventually leading to the adoption of MARPOL.
IMO was instrumental in the adoption of the Gulf of Mexico as a Special Area under
MARPOL Annex V (see page 36). In November 1990, the Marine Environment
Protection Committee of the IMO agreed to designate the Gulf of Mexico and the
Caribbean Sea as Special Areas under Annex V of MARPOL, which means that no
dumping of any trash will be allowed in those areas. Formal adoption of the
designation will take place in July 1992 unless there are objections from a majority of
IMO's eighty-six member nations.
Contacts: Mr. Jan Voordouw
United Nations Environmental Programme
14-20 Port Royal St.
Kingston, Jamaica
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
Marine Environment Division
4 Albert Embankment
London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom
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United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization - Intergovernmental
Oceanographic Commission (UNESCO/IOC)
IOC works in close cooperation with the Caribbean Environment Program,
particularly through the CEPOL program, in projects and activities to satisfy the
following objectives: 1) to organize and carry out a regionally coordinated marine
pollution monitoring and research program; 2) to strengthen the capabilities of
national institutions allowing for their participation in regional and national efforts in
order to implement marine pollution monitoring and research activities; and 3) to
develop pollution control programs at the national and regional levels.
Contact: Secretariat
Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
UNESCO Headquarters
7 place de Fontenoy
75700 Paris, France
Organization of American States (OAS)
The Organization of American States (OAS) is the oldest regional society of nations Jn
the world, dating back to 1890. The Department of Regional Development (DRD) is
the traditional "environmental focal point" in OAS. DRD has a multidisciplinary
focus and strong orientation toward the formulation of specific investment projects for
the development and rational use of natural resources, energy and infrastructure.
Contact: Organization of American States (OAS)
Department for Regional Development
1889 F Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20006
Beyond the extensive efforts of the United Nations, many other academic,
professional, and governmental organizations—such as the Commission of the
European Economic Communities and the International Union for the Conservation of
Nature and Natural Resources—are taking steps to combat the marine debris problem.
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Federal Level
Federal Statutes Affecting Marine Debris Programs
Marine Plastic Pollution, Research, and Control Act of 1987
The Marine Plastic Pollution, Research, and Control Act (MPPRCA), requires that
the effects of plastic pollution on the marine environment be identified and reduced.
This Act is an amendment to the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships, which regulates
the disposal of waste generated during normal operations of vessels. USCG has lead
responsibility for implementing MPPRCA. This act also requires establishment of a
public education program on plastic pollution and citizen pollution patrols.
MPPRCA includes the provisions of MARPOL Annex V to prohibit the disposal of
plastic by vessels at sea and to regulate the disposal of other types of garbage.
Jurisdiction extends to any vessels operating in the navigable waters of the United
States, including the territorial seas, and U.S. ships, including public vessels,
operating anywhere. MPPRCA also requires that placards be placed in ships to
highlight garbage disposal limitations. The Act also mandates waste management
plans, reception facilities at ports and marinas, citizen monitoring of beach debris,
and research on the effects of plastic in the marine environment. As required under
MPPRCA, EPA developed a Report to Congress entitled "Methods to Manage and
Control Plastic Waste" (EPA, 1990). NOAA prepared another Report to Congress
describing the effects of debris on marine life.
Degradable Plastic Ring Carrier Act of 1988
This legislation directs EPA to require that plastic ring carriers be made of naturally
degradable material that, when discarded, will decompose within a reasonable time.
EPA is currently developing regulations to implement this Act nationally.
Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972, as amended by the Ocean
Dumping Ban Act of 1988
The Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA), better known as the
Ocean Dumping Act, regulates the transport of materials for the purpose of ocean
dumping. MPRSA implements the provisions of the London Dumping Convention
(see page 35). While EPA does not permit the ocean dumping of trash or garbage,
certain materials can be ocean dumped under this Act (i.e., sewage, fish waste, and
dredged material).
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An amendment to the MPRSA, the Ocean Dumping Ban Act (ODBA), prohibits
ocean dumping of sewage sludge and industrial waste after December 31, 1991.
Although the primary purpose of ODBA is to minimize the impacts of ocean disposal,
it does not specifically address the handling of plastics. The Act also includes
provisions prohibiting public vessels from disposing of potentially infectious medical
wastes at sea and toughens the penalties for dumping medical wastes in the ocean.
Shore Protection Act of 1988
The Shore Protection Act requires garbage barges carrying municipal or other
nonhazardous commercial waste to install handling systems and obtain permits for
waste transport. Under the authority of the Act, EPA and USCG are working to
develop a regulatory program to address vessel transportation of wastes. EPA is also
preparing a Report to Congress describing the need for and potential effectiveness of
a tracking system for vessels transporting wastes in U.S. waters.
Clean Water Act of 1977 as amended by the Water Quality Act of 1987
The Clean Water Act (CWA) outlines a number of programs that regulate discharges
into the navigable waters of the U.S. and other activities that affect water quality.
In trying to prevent, reduce, or eliminate water pollution, EPA has set effluent
limitations, or restrictions on the discharges of many specific substances, under its
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). All NPDES permits
require self-monitoring and reporting of violations, with very severe penalties for
falsification. EPA has limited resources to commit to inspection and compliance
monitoring. However, EPA has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
with the Minerals Management Service (MMS) which has regulatory authority over
offshore oil and gas rigs with regard to safety and other operations. The MOA allows
the MMS to act as EPA's representative to ensure compliance with NPDES permits.
Storm water discharges are direct, untreated discharges that can include street runoff
from storms and illegal sewerage hook-ups-all of which contribute to marine debris.
The Act requires that cities with populations over 100,000 develop comprehensive
plans for controlling storm water runoff. The plans must include a description of
legal authorities and financial support for implementation. The Act also sets deadlines
for these cities to obtain permits. These storm water regulations also require that
certain industrial facilities that discharge storm water apply for a permit. In
implementing this program, EPA Regions IV and VI will emphasize public awareness
and education, as well as recycling and pollution prevention, and will also conduct a
vigorous program of inspections of industrial discharges. Future EPA regulations
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The Solution -- A Framework for Action Chapter III
may cover smaller urbanized areas and other industries shown to be a problem.
Although plastics are not specifically regulated by the CWA, discharges from factory
pipes or city storm sewers that may contain plastics and other types of marine debris
are also subject to control. With full state compliance, these regulations will result in
a significant decrease in the release of street litter into the marine environment during
heavy rains.
Another section of CWA, §319, establishes a program for managing contaminated
runoff from nonpoint sources of pollution. Each state is to identify all waterbody
segments that fail to meet water quality standards or to attain designated uses due to
runoff, boating wastes, faulty septic systems, and other sources of nonpoint pollution.
The states must then submit a four-year management program for controlling the
pollutant sources. The plans are subject to EPA approval and may be eligible for
grants of up to 60 percent of some costs (excluding construction) to assist in
implementation.
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972
The Coastal Zone Management Act provides grants to coastal states for developing
and administering management programs for their coastal zones. These programs can
include the control of marine debris. The Act protects natural, historic, and
archaeological resources, providing also for increased recreational access to coastal
areas, management of coastal development, and coordination and streamlining of
Federal and state decisions that directly affect these resources. All Federal activities
that directly affect a state's coastal zone must be consistent with that state's Federally
approved coastal management plan. Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi
have developed such plans. The Governor of Texas has given notice to the
Department of Commerce that Texas will submit a coastal management plan for
approval under the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act.
Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988
The Medical Waste Tracking Act requires a 24-month demonstration program for the
tracking of medical waste in selected states. It also requires EPA to develop lists of
medical wastes and regulations for the demonstration program.
The National Ocean Pollution Planning Act of 1978
This Act calls for the establishment of a comprehensive, coordinated, and effective
Federal program for ocean pollution research, development, and monitoring. NOAA,
in consultation with other agencies, prepares a five-year Federal plan for the National
Marine Pollution Program, which is updated every three years.
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Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972
The Marine Mammal Protection Act places a moratorium on the taking and
importation of marine mammals and marine mammal products for any purpose other
than scientific research or public display. The Marine Mammal Commission,
established in 1974 under Title II of the Act, recommends protection and conservation
policies on marine mammals for Federal agencies.
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act of 1980
This Act provides financial and technical assistance to states for the development,
revision, and implementation of conservation plans and programs for nongame fish
and wildlife. It requires the Fish and Wildlife Service to review Federal projects for
their impact on wildlife and allows FWS to specify required activities to reduce harm
to wildlife.
Endangered Species Act of 1972
The Endangered Species Act contains provisions to conserve endangered and
threatened species and the ecosystems on which they depend. The Act requires that
criteria be developed for determining which species are "endangered" or "threatened."
The Act prohibits the "taking" of any endangered or threatened species and requires
consultation among agencies concerning actions that may jeopardize an endangered or
threatened species.
Interagency Coordination
Interagency Task Force on Marine Debris
An Interagency Task Force on Persistent Marine Debris was formed by the White
House Domestic Policy Council in 1987 to address the problem of plastics pollution.
The Task Force charge was to assess the problem and need for research, find ways to
reduce plastic debris, and devise alternative ways to solve the problems of plastic
marine pollution. The Task Force is chaired by the Department of Commerce
(NOAA) and includes representation from the Department of Agriculture (Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Services), Department of Defense (Navy), Department of
Health and Human Services (Food and Drug Administration), Department of the
Interior (Office of Legislative Affairs), Department of State, Department of
Transportation (USCG), EPA, Marine Mammal Commission, Council on
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The Solution -- A Framework for Action Chapter III
Environmental Quality, Office of Domestic Policy, and the Office of Management and
Budget. The recommendations of the Task Force, set out in their 1988 report,
include:
• Federal leadership and interaction of state activities and private groups,
• Public awareness and education,
• Vigorous implementation of all laws related to marine debris,
• Research and monitoring of the effects and sources of marine debris and the
potential use of degradable plastics, and
• Continuation of beach cleanups and monitoring.
Marine Debris Roundtable
The Marine Debris Roundtable is an advisory group composed of EPA, NOAA,
NMFS, FWS, USCG, DOD, NPS, and environmental and industrial organizations,
such as CMC and the Society of Plastics Industries. Meeting on an ad hoc
basis-roughly once a year-this advisory group has encouraged discussion and
coordination of efforts nationally and serves as an arena to exchange information,
ideas, and technology on topics such as degradability and control measures. Current
activities are focused on:
• Determining the sources and effects of debris;
• Establishing appropriate control measures through education, prevention, and
voluntary compliance, as well as regulations and legislation;
• Coordinating resources;
• Coordinating volunteer beach cleanups; and
• Developing monitoring programs to determine the effectiveness of operating
control programs.
Beach Cleanups
Through grants to CMC, EPA Headquarter's National Marine Debris Program and
NOAA's Marine Entanglement Program sponsor the national beach cleanups, which
have occurred from 1987 to 1991. These two agencies also sponsor CMC's National
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The Solution -- A Framework for Action Chapter III
Marine Debris Database, which contains coastal cleanup collection results on the
types and quantities of debris found on the nation's coasts and shorelines. To update
the National Marine Debris Database, CMC distributes data cards to states that
conduct beach cleanups. All completed cards are returned to CMC for compilation
and analysis. In 1990, more than 44,685 volunteers in the Gulf of Mexico
participated in the national coastal cleanup. The agencies use the data collection
results to monitor marine debris trends along the coastline. EPA and NOAA also
fund CMC information distribution centers in Washington, D.C., and California.
NOAA and EPA are coordinating efforts to develop a marine debris monitoring
guidance document that describes methods for sampling debris on beaches and at sea
to assess trends. The EPA-sponsored pilot programs will be undertaken in New
Jersey, Maryland, and possibly Texas. In addition, EPA, the Navy, and the Maritime
Administration (MARAD) will co-sponsor a conference on shipboard waste
incineration criteria and technologies during the Winter of 1991-92.
Involved Federal Agencies
In addition to the interagency activities, many Federal agencies have taken individual
steps to address the marine debris problem. Some of their key activities are
highlighted below.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
EPA Administrator William Reilly issued the National Coastal and Marine Policy in
1989. One of the goals of this policy is the recovery of full use of shores, beaches,
and water by reducing amounts of plastics, floatables, and debris.
EPA is working toward this goal through a National Marine Debris Program,
coordinated in Washington, D.C., as well as through region-specific activities in
appropriate EPA regions. The national program focuses on:
• Determining the sources and effects of marine debris;
• Establishing appropriate control measures through education, prevention, and
voluntary compliance, as well as regulatory actions; and
• Developing monitoring programs to determine the effectiveness of operating
controls.
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EPA has conducted a number of activities under this program. For instance, EPA has
developed a pilot project for a Bay Keeper Program, which recruits, orients, and
retains volunteers for bay patrols and initiates investigation and follow-up with
regulatory agencies on pollution incidents. The Agency is testing the program in
Annapolis, MD. Active Bay Keeper Programs currently exist in San Francisco Bay
and other estuaries.
EPA is also developing a school curriculum that addresses such subjects as the
sources and effects of marine debris and pollution prevention techniques. Further, the
Agency provided funds to CMC to produce a public service announcement on marine
debris featuring Popeye, the cartoon character.
Surveys of floating debris in several U.S. harbors, including the Houston Ship
Channel, are being conducted using the Agency's Ocean Survey Vessel, the PETER
W. ANDERSON and other ships. Through these studies, EPA hopes to better
understand the sources and impacts of floatable debris and to corroborate data
collected at national beach cleanups.
EPA is also conducting a study of the incidence and sources of plastic pellets in the
environment and is working with the Society of Plastics Industries to analyze the
problem and offer recommendations to prevent loss of pellets in the future. In
conjunction with this study, EPA has visited seven pellet manufacturing, transport,
and use facilities, some of which are in the watershed that drains into the Gulf of
Mexico. EPA is also conducting combined sewer overflows/storm sewer studies to
determine the amount and types of debris existing in these systems. Floatables
collected in sewage treatment plants are also being identified and quantified to
determine the types of debris that sewage contributes to the aquatic environment.
Finally, EPA is developing The Notional Strategy for Controlling the Release of
Debris to the Aquatic Environment. This strategy will help the Agency implement
recommendations from the Interagency Task Force that are EPA's responsibility. The
recommendations will be used by EPA headquarters to develop national action plans
and by the EPA regions to develop local action plans.
Contact: Mr. David Redford
Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds (WH-556F)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M. Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
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Notional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)
NMFS is charged with protecting, conserving, and managing a wide range of marine
species and their habitats. In 1984, Congress directed NMFS to develop a research
program in consultation with the Marine Mammal Commission (see page 44). The
subsequent International Workshop on the Fate and Impact of Marine Debris held in
Hawaii later that year helped define the goals and objectives of the program.
The Marine Entanglement Research Program
Prior to the passage of MARPOL, NOAA began the Marine Entanglement Research
Program. Through this program, NOAA and EPA currently sponsor educational
activities aimed at debris generators and oversee the operation of two marine debris
information offices. NOAA also sponsors research on the origin, amount,
distribution, and particularly the effects of debris on marine species; conducts studies
on the impacts of debris (such as lost fishing nets) on marine mammals and birds; and
explores ways to reduce the amount of non-degradable material lost or disposed of at
sea. In June 1989, NOAA released a report to Congress on the fates and effects of
plastic debris at sea and methods to mitigate environmental damage.
The Sea Grant College Program
Sea Grant College Program marine advisory agents are involved in public education
and in the organization of beach cleanups and workshops to discuss marine debris.
Contact: Ms. Karen Mitchell
National Marine Fisheries Service
P.O. Drawer 1207
Pascagoula, MS 39568-1207
The Department of Transportation (DOT)
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)
The Department of Transportation's Coast Guard is the enforcing agency of
MARPOL V provisions under the authority of the Marine Plastic Pollution, Research,
and Control Act. USCG is mandated to establish guidelines to ensure effective
implementation and enforcement of the MARPOL V provisions, as they apply to U.S.
navigable waters, vessels, or vessel facilities under U.S. jurisdiction. USCG has
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begun to issue certificates to terminals and ports that are equipped with proper
disposal facilities for operational solid waste from ships. In addition, USCG is
enforcing a new rule, effective July 31, 1990, requiring vessels over 40 feet to have a
waste management plan and vessels over 26 feet to display placards outlining plastic
and solid waste dumping restrictions. Coast Guard Auxiliaries are considering
including information on proper trash disposal practices in their boater safety courses.
In November 1990, USCG proposed a Special Area designation for the Gulf of
Mexico at the International Maritime Organization meeting in London.
Contact: Lt. Cdr. William Prosser, U.S. Coast Guard
Eighth Coast Guard District
500 Camp Street
New Orleans, LA 70130-3396
The Department of the Interior (DOT)
Minerals Management Service (MMS)
The Department of the Interior's MMS is the lead regulatory agency for Federal
offshore oil and gas operations. MMS has established pollution prevention and
control regulations for handling and treating trash and wastes generated by petroleum
activities. MMS restricts the disposal of solid waste materials into the ocean and
inspects offshore operations to ensure compliance. Under the theme "Take Pride
Gulf-Wide," MMS pursues an active role in developing methods and supporting
research to mitigate the effects of marine debris. In 1986, MMS issued a special
directive to all Gulf of Mexico oil and gas operations to train employees on proper
waste disposal. MMS also sponsors an annual Information Transfer Meeting to
present major Gulf environmental issues to industry, state and local governments, and
the general public. Recently, MMS held special sessions on marine debris.
Contact: Mr. Barney Congdon
Minerals Management Service
1201 Elmwood Park Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70123
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National Park Service (NFS)
Within the Department of the Interior, NFS conducts research on marine debris and
has established programs to address disposal and cleanup. NFS actively participates
in the Gulfs Take Pride education programs at or related to national seashores,
lakeshores, and rivers—including interpretive programs. NFS also works with private
groups (such as Keep America Beautiful) to develop solutions to solid waste
problems.
NFS has collaborated with USCG and others since 1984 in inventorying, removing,
and analyzing the contents of 55-gallon drums washing up on the 65 miles of Gulf
shoreline at Padre Island National Seashore. NPS is also conducting a systematic
investigation of marine debris at eight National Parks located along the Pacific, Gulf,
and Atlantic coasts.
Contact: Ms. Gail Bishop
National Park Service
Gulf Islands National Seashore
3500 Park Road
Ocean Springs, MS 39564
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
FWS conducts research for NOAA on marine debris ingestion rates and possible
effects on seabirds. FWS also cooperates with state agencies to educate fishermen
and boaters on the hazards of marine debris. Ongoing habitat research in Florida
provides valuable information on entanglement and ingestion and their effects on the
endangered Florida manatee.
Contact: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
75 Spring St., SW Room 1276
Atlanta, GA 30303
The Department of Defense (DOD)
Since 1971, the U.S. Navy has led a Shipboard Pollution Abatement Program to
regulate waste discharges from naval vessels. Although all public vessels (including
those of the Navy) are exempt from MARPOL V provisions until 1993, the Navy has
implemented a program reducing the amount of plastics dumped by its ships by 70
percent. The Renew America Organization named the U.S. Navy Shipboard Plastics
Pollution Prevention Program (SPPP) among the Nation's model environmental
programs being recognized in the 1991 "Searching for Success Program." The Navy
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has also begun developing alternatives to current shipboard waste management
systems and shipboard pollution control equipment. Along this vein, the Navy has
investigated source reduction, researched alternative packing materials, begun an
education program, and explored new waste management technology-such as
shipboard trash compactors-designed to better manage solid and plastic waste
generated on board Navy ships.
According to the Navy, an aircraft carrier training ship based in Florida has
completed a test of the newly developed solid waste management equipment.
Through the use of new technology, the carrier crew was able to hold all plastic,
including food-contaminated plastic and all other solid waste, during a two-week test
period. Upon returning to port, the plastic waste was recycled into plastic lumber
used to make picnic tables, fence posts, pallets, and park benches. More broadly, the
Navy convened an Ad Hoc Advisory Committee on plastics to develop a
comprehensive plan for waste reduction, handling practices, and educational
programs.
The Navy is also working with the CMC to coordinate a program for school children
to participate in beach cleanups with the Navy. This educational program will also
include tours of Navy vessels and the teaching of proper waste disposal methods.
Contact: Mr. Robert Slender
U.S. Navy
Naval Air Station
Corpus Christi, TX 78419-5100
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) regulate trash disposal
from foreign ships to prevent the entry and spread of exotic pests and disease in the
U.S. APHIS regulates transport and disposal of trash on ships arriving at U.S. ports
that have visited foreign ports other than Canada. According to APHIS, ships
entering the U.S. from a foreign port are required to sterilize, incinerate, or dispose
of trash into an USDA approved waste system. APHIS will work with USCG in
approving trash disposal facilities and in monitoring compliance with MARPOL V
among those ships it currently regulates.
Contact: Plant Protection and Quarantine
6505 Bell Crest Road
Federal Center Bldg.
Hyattsville, MD 20782
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The Department of State (DOS)
The State Department played a leading role in U.S. ratification of MARPOL Annex
V. Representing the U.S. in international meetings on marine pollution issues and in
the negotiation of treaties and agreements for foreign fishing in U.S. waters, the
Department of State ensures that the U.S. complies with its international obligations
under these agreements.
Contact: Office of Oceans and Polar Affairs
OES/OPA
Room 5801
2201 C Street, NW
Washington, DC 20520
Regional Level
The Gulf of Mexico Program
The Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Subcommittee adopted the "Take Pride
Gulf-Wide" theme and logo to reflect its mission and has made great strides toward
achieving a litter-free Gulf coastline. Public and industry interest in cleaning up and
caring for the Gulf has burgeoned. Public participation in the annual Gulf-wide beach
cleanup day in September has grown from 11,000 volunteers in 1987 to more than
37,000 in 1990. Adopt-A-Beach programs have been established in all five Gulf
States, and by the end of 1990, 273 public and private sponsors had adopted 286
miles of Gulf of Mexico beaches. The Gulf of Mexico Program has been
instrumental in the designation process of the Gulf as a Special Area under MARPOL
Annex V. This campaign marks the first time that a Special Area designation has
been pursued for United States waters.
In 1989, the Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris Subcommittee funded the following
projects:
• Public service announcement emphasizing the ocean as a home to wildlife and
the harm caused by marine debris; and
• Marine debris information survey, which is a review of projects, legislation,
and educational and information materials on marine debris in the Gulf of
Mexico (contained in Appendix B of this document).
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In 1990, the Subcommittee funded the following projects:
• Fifteen minute Take Pride Gulf-Wide video;
• Manual on how to start and run an Adopt-A-Beach Program, which the
Subcommittee hopes to later translate into Spanish for distribution to the
Wider Caribbean; and
• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) pilot project at Fourchon Beach, LA, that is
analyzing Adopt-A-Beach data and making recommendations on the long-term
use of volunteers for data collection.
In 1991, the Subcommittee is providing support for the National Park Service's study
of the Padre Island National Seashore and for the development of a debris data
collection methodology for a five-state monitoring program.
Contact: Mr. William Holland
Gulf of Mexico Program
Bldg. 1103, Room 202
John C. Stennis Space Center
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529
EPA Regions TV and VI
EPA Regions IV and VI are currently in the process of implementing this Gulf of
Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan as part of their marine debris strategies.
The regional marine debris programs are intended to complement and supplement the
activities of the Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris Subcommittee.
Boater's Pledge Program
In 1990, the Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Subcommittee started pilot
projects in the five Gulf States to initiate a Boater's Pledge Program. A Boater's
Pledge Workshop was held in June 1991 to facilitate the planning of a region-wide
Boater's Pledge Program among the five Gulf States.
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Spin-off activities have occurred in each of the five Gulf States including:
• A Boater's Pledge project is also being developed in Alabama. Alabama has
published an information pamphlet through the Alabama Sea Grant Extension
entitled "Stow-It, Don't Throw It" in addition to producing and distributing
30-gallon boater's trash bags.
• A Boater's Pledge Program will begin soon in Louisiana with materials
available to all those in attendance at Beachsweep workshops. Louisiana
plans to expand the Boater's Pledge Program statewide, making decals and
pledge forms available to the general public for sportsmen, fishermen, and
others in addition to ocean-going vessel operators. The materials will be
dispersed through the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Offices in each parish,
as well as through Sheriffs' offices and the Department of Wildlife and
Fisheries agencies.
State Level
Gulf States have also been tackling the marine debris problem. Some of their key
activities are highlighted below. The chart on page 60 is a brief overview of state
programs related to marine debris.
Alabama
The Alabama Coastal Area Management Program (ACAMP) is currently being
revised and will be instrumental in implementing the Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris
Action Plan. The State already has several acts under its criminal code that prohibit
the disposal of all plastics within U.S. waters. ACAMP divides coastal area program
responsibilities between two State agencies. The Alabama Department of Economic
and Community Affairs (ADECA) is responsible for administration and planning,
while permitting and enforcement activities are conducted by the Alabama Department
of Environmental Management (ADEM). ADEM also regulates new boat marinas
and requires trash receptacles for the disposal of debris. Enforcement of marine litter
laws is the responsibility of USCG and the Alabama Marine Police.
The Alabama Coastal Cleanup takes place on the third Saturday in September, in
coordination with National COASTWEEKS and the "Take Pride Gulf-Wide" coastal
cleanups. In addition, an Adopt-a-Beach program for Alabama has been approved
and is currently being implemented. Pamphlets on Adopt-a-Beach and Coastal
Cleanup, along with a bumper sticker, have already been produced.
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The Department of Environmental Management, the Department of Conservation and
Natural Resources, and the Department of Public Health have proposed legislation
that would prohibit the discharge of sewage or refuse from any vessel in Alabama
waters. Penalties for violation would range from $100 to $25,000. The Alabama
Legislature is considering this bill during its 1991 session.
Contacts: Mr. John Marshall
Alabama Department of Environmental Management
Mobile Field Office
2204 Perimeter Road
Mobile, AL 36615
Mr. Phillip Hinesley
Coastal Programs Office
Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
10936-B Hwy 98
Fairhope, AL 36532
Florida
The Florida Coastal Management Program is a network program implementing
Statewide policies and regulations involving the jurisdiction and cooperation of many
agencies. The priority issue is resource protection. Principal State coastal regulatory
programs address activities in wetlands, beaches, dunes, aquatic preserves, and
estuaries, and include point and nonpoint source management. Generally, discharge
of any wastes into Florida waters requires a permit. This permit includes specific
information about the materials to be released, pollution abatement measures to be
undertaken, a time limitation for releases, and any additional conditions or restrictions
(mitigation) to preserve and protect the waters of the State. Permission is also
required to use sovereign submerged lands. Dumping of litter in waters of the State
has been prohibited since 1971 under the Florida Litter Law. The Florida Marine
Patrol in the Department of Natural Resources provides an enforcement presence in
the State marine waters.
Florida's Solid Waste Management Act of 1988 requires all counties to initiate a
recycling program and achieve an overall 30 percent volume reduction goal by 1994.
The Act provides grants for public information and education programs and
degradability requirements for packaging, including polystyrene. Owners of marinas,
ports, terminals, etc., are also required to provide trash receptacles.
In 1988, the Clean Florida Commission was established and a non-profit corporation,
Keep Florida Beautiful Inc., was funded to work with civic groups and private
industry. These two groups work together on litter control. Keep Florida Beautiful
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Inc. administers the Florida Adopt-A-Shore Program, which was initiated in 1990 and
already has 370 miles of adopted coastline.
The Florida Department of Education has produced and distributed a solid waste
management curriculum for Florida schools (pre-kindergarten through third grade).
The Florida Marine Fisheries Commission sets policy on fishing gear and has made it
State policy to prohibit the intentional discard of monofilament line or net. The
Florida Legislature has, by statute, prohibited the release of more than 10 balloons at
one time.
In a coordinated effort, the nonprofit CMC through the Florida office of the CMC
organizes the annual Florida Coastal Cleanup. A steering committee of public and
private representatives helps plan the Statewide cleanup. The Florida Coastal
Management Program in the Department of Environmental Regulation publishes the
Florida COASTWEEKS Calendar. In 1990, over 18,400 people participated in the
one-day cleanup, data collection, and recycling effort. The 1989 and 1990 Florida
Cleanups set a world record.
Contacts: Ms. Cindy Cosper
Florida Department of Environmental Regulation
2600 Blair Stone Road
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400
Ms. Heidi Lovett
Center for Marine Conservation
One Beach Dr. SE, Suite 304
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Ms. Rosemary Prince
Florida Adopt-A-Shore Program
402 West College Avenue
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Louisiana
The Louisiana Coastal Resources Program covers significant land and water activities
under the Louisiana State and Local Coastal Resources Act. This Act also provides
for Coastal Use Guidelines that cover levees; linear facilities; dredge spoil disposition;
shoreline modification; surface alterations; and oil, gas, and other mineral extraction
activities. Any discharge into State waters requires a permit under the Louisiana
Water Control Law, and discharge of any substance likely to cause water pollution is
forbidden.
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Two State statutes specifically address marine litter. Act 235 sets penalties for
littering in the State, including specific punishments for those who litter from water
vessels. Act 936 establishes minimum standards for litter receptacles throughout the
State including rules for marinas, piers, boat launching areas, ferry landings, and
public beaches.
Presently, Louisiana's Adopt-A-Beach program covers 21 beaches-numbering 38.8
miles. Louisiana has also passed a new recycling law (Act 185 in 1990) mandating
recycling in all communities to meet a 25 percent waste reduction by 1992.
Contact: Ms. Barbara Coltharp
Louisiana Office of Litter Control and Recycling
P.O. Box 94291
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9291
Mississippi
Mississippi's environmental agencies work toward the State goal of regulating water
pollution by promoting activities that use resources in compliance with the Mississippi
Coastal Program. The coastal program includes wetlands management, fisheries
management, policy coordination, special management areas, scenic preservation, and
protection of the national interest. In addition, the Mississippi Air and Water
Pollution Control Commission is charged with developing regulations for water
quality. It is unlawful to cause pollution of any waters or to discharge any wastes
that may bring the State's water quality below the Commission's standards.
The Mississippi State Marine Litter Act of 1989 prohibits disposal of plastics and
other trash in marine waters and sets the requirements for disposal facilities in certain
areas. The Act also includes provisions set forth in MARPOL. Revisions to the law
in 1991 provide for containment of certain hazardous substances on boats, recovery of
entangled fishing gear, and provisions to impose fines for violations of up to $10,000
and/or community service (25-250 hours) requiring litter collection.
Contact: Mr. Dave Ruple
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks
Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
2620 Beach Blvd.
Biloxi, MS 39531
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Texas
The Texas General Land Office has developed a coastal management plan for Texas
beaches and the State-owned submerged land underlying the Gulf of Mexico. On
June 7, 1991, the Texas State Legislature passed two bills creating a State-Owned
Wetlands Conservation Plan and a Coastal Management Plan addressing coastal
erosion, beach access, dune protection, and planning and coordination of these
activities. The Governor of Texas has given notice to the Department of Commerce
that Texas will submit a coastal management plan for approval under the Federal
Coastal Zone Management Act.
Texas has also adopted new rules to prevent the dumping of solid waste from
marinas, rigs and vessels operating in State waters under State permits. To help
promote plastics recycling, State legislation, passed in 1989, requires Texas
manufacturers of plastics to use a coding system to facilitate recycling. An
educational program for schools, ports, and beach cleanups is being developed to
highlight recycling of plastics.
Texas has played a significant role in the ratification of MARPOL Annex V,
obtaining Special Area Designation for the Wider Caribbean Region, and in bringing
the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Nations Environmental
Programme (UNEP), and the World Bank together to build reception facilities in the
Wider Caribbean Region.
CMC created the Texas Coastal Cleanup in 1986, and works with the Adopt-A-Beach
program to coordinate the September Cleanup. The Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program
currently has over 190 groups that have adopted all 172 miles of accessible beach in
Texas. Over 67,000 volunteers have removed 1,700 tons of debris off Texas
beaches. The Texas General Land Office adopted the Texas Lakeshore Cleanup
Program in 1989 and conducts over 30 lakeshore cleanups around the State.
The Texas program has gone beyond just beach cleanups, instituting educational
efforts and pilot projects to involve commercial fishermen, oil companies, recreational
boaters and fishermen, and other Gulf user groups.
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Contacts: Ms. Angela Farias
Director of Marine Conservation
Texas General Land Office
1700 North Congress Ave., Room 837
Austin, TX 78701-1495
Ms. Linda Maraniss
Regional Director
Center for Marine Conservation
1201 West 24th Street
Austin, TX 78705
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Chapter III
Table 3.1 State Efforts in Addressing Marine Debris
State
AL
FL
MS
LA
TX
Mandatory
Recycling
Law
X
X
State
Coastal
ZoneMgmt.
Plan
X
X
X
X
X
National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES)
EPA-Delegated Program
X
X
Litter
Law
X
X
X
X
X
Beach
Adoption
Program
X
X
X
X
X
Educational
Program
X
X
X
X
X
Bottle
Bill
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User Groups
According to presentations made at America's Sea Symposium held in December
1990 in New Orleans, LA, key user groups have made some important strides toward
combatting the marine debris problem in the Gulf of Mexico. Some of these efforts
are described below.
Oil and Gas Industry
The Offshore Operators Committee (OOC) represents 55 oil and gas companies and
26 service companies that conduct virtually all of the oil and gas exploration and
production activities in the Gulf of Mexico. The OOC promotes the theme "Clean
Rigs, Clean Water, Clean Beaches."
In 1985, the OOC increased employee training on waste disposal, including producing
a video entitled "All Washed Up." By the end of 1987, 45 OOC-member companies
had used 160 copies of the video for viewing by over 10,000 employees of the oil and
gas industry or their contractors (MMS, 1988). Recently, the OOC formed an Ad
Hoc Environmental Waste Handling-Recycling Committee to improve the industry's
record on the proper disposal of recyclables such as domestic trash, drums, hard hats,
and plastic and wooden transportation materials. The new committee is charged with
reviewing existing beach cleanup reports, identifying offshore and shore-based waste
reduction and recycling areas, providing procedures and educational tools to establish
waste management and recycling programs, and assisting local communities to create
recycling programs.
According to a recent OOC member survey, 75 percent of respondents use some form
of advanced waste management practices for offshore generated waste such as
recycling, sorting, or waste minimization. Respondents—31 operators and 5 service
companies—represented 70 percent of offshore oil and gas production based on 1988
production data for the Gulf of Mexico. Half of the respondents have implemented a
"no polystyrene offshore" policy in regard to food service products. A majority of
respondents use covered baskets or an equivalent for transporting solid waste to shore
for proper disposal.
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Contacts: Mr. Bernie Herbert
Amoco Production Company in New Orleans
P.O. Box 50879
New Orleans, LA 70150
Offshore Operators Committee
P.O. Box 50751
New Orleans, LA 70150
Plastics Industry
The plastics industry, represented by the Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI), is
attempting to reduce the number of resin pellets released into the environment. SPI
has sponsored numerous activities and provided funding for displays, brochures, and
other public education materials—including ads in industry journals—on how to
properly dispose of plastics. Intended audiences range from individuals to merchant
shippers. SPI works with NOAA to support activities at fishing tournaments, trade
conferences, and beach cleanups. SPI is also working with EPA to develop control
techniques for the plastics industry.
In 1987, SPI sponsored the '87 Symposium on Degradable Plastics to promote
research and give information on degradable plastics. The objectives were to examine
not only if and how plastics can be made to degrade but also whether it is desirable
for plastic products to be made degradable.
The SPI Plastic Bottle Institute and Plastic Recycling Foundation promote recycling
and improved plastics-recycling technology. SPI also formed the Council on Plastics
and Packaging in the Environment. A broad-based coalition of various industry
representatives, the Council develops and distributes public education materials on
solid waste disposal. In 1988, the plastics industry established the Council for Solid
Waste Solutions to support technical research, government relations, and
communications.
Contact: Society of the Plastics Industry
1275 K Street NW, Suite 400
Washington, DC 20005
Commercial Fishing
A coalition of commercial fishermen from five nations met in 1987 for the the North
Pacific Rim Fishermen's Conference on Marine Debris to discuss ways to reduce the
problem. The group passed a resolution outlining several goals that members could
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undertake ranging from increased efforts to reduce loss of plastic items, to promoting
education programs, to research. The fishing industry adopted the "Stow it, don't
throw it" motto.
The Texas General Land Office, Texas Shrimp Association, and Texas A&M Sea
Grant secured a grant from the Gulf and South Atlantic Fisheries Foundation to
sponsor a pilot project known as "Operation Clean Sweep." This project was
designed to encourage commercial fishermen to save marine debris caught offshore in
shrimp nets and return the debris to port. Three commercial fishing ports in south
Texas provided special trash receptacles for offshore shrimpers and participated in
special education and outreach activities.
The Organized Fishermen of Florida (OFF) represents commercial fishermen, and has
an active Marine Refuse Disposal Project. Through a grant, fishermen from Cortez,
FL, have received stow trash, and are working on promoting used oil recycling.
They have been active volunteers in the Florida Coastal Cleanup and have worked
with other organizations to clean debris from sites that are targeted for future habitat
restoration, before restoration begins. They also assisted the CMC with several
marine debris education campaigns, including posting aluminum Popeye signs around
boat ramps and marinas in Martin and St. Lucie Counties.
Contacts: Ms. Sharron Stewart
Gulf Coast Fishermen's Environmental Defense Fund
P.O. Box 701
Lake Jackson, TX 77566-0701
Ms. Lucy Gibbs
Texas Shrimp Association
403 Vaughn Bldg.
Austin, TX 78701
Mr. Mark Taylor
Organized Fishermen of Florida
Gulf Coast Office
P.O. Box 118
Cortez, FL 34215
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Merchant Shipping
According to a presentation made at America's Seas Symposium in December 1990,
approximately 33 percent of the modern merchant fleet now operating in the Gulf
carries cargo that is shipped in containers or units. This type of cargo generates little
or no waste at sea. In anticipation of MARPOL V, ship owners installed and use
grinders, compactors, and ship-board incinerators to better handle their waste. In
addition, separation of trash and waste reduction are believed to be a common
practice, with ship stewards avoiding plastic packaging and buying in bulk quantities.
Polystyrene cups and plastic trash can liners have been replaced by reusable drinking
cups and paper bags.
The American Institute of Merchant Shippers supports MARPOL V and has required
pollution prevention training, logbook entries, and waste management plans in order
to comply with its provisions.
Contact: Mr. Ted Thorjussen
West Gulf Maritime Association
1717 E. Loop 610
Houston, TX 77029-4019
Port Authorities
Port Authorities are created by state or local governments to facilitate international
trade and to stimulate economic development. In 1987 the American Association of
Port Authorities surveyed all U.S. ports to assess how many had adequate disposal
facilities for ship wastes, as required by MARPOL V. At that time, approximately 60
percent of the 84 member ports had facilities that were capable of handling regulated
wastes. All ports are currently trying to comply with MARPOL V provisions.
Contacts: Colonel Floyd Buch
Port of Corpus Christi
P.O. Box 1541
Corpus Christi, TX 78403
Mr. David C. Carpenter
Director of Environmental Affairs
Tampa Port Authority
P.O. Box 2192
811 WynkoopRoad
Tampa, FL 33601
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Marine Industries
Boat manufacturers are including MARPOL information placards in their new models.
In addition, at least one fishing tackle manufacturer is accepting used monofilament
line for recycling. The industry is interested in providing extra services that will
contribute to the attainment of waste management goals.
Recreational Boating and Fishing
Boating and fishing enthusiasts are being educated about the dangers of marine
debris-mostly through public service announcements and magazine advertisements,
including the Regional Boater's Pledge Program. The most memorable message is
the "don't teach your trash to swim" fish entangled in the six-pack ring. The Florida
Conservation Association reports that its members are participating in the national
beach cleanups. Trash bags are being handed out at fishing tournaments. The catch-
and-release ethic is being translated to trash and recycling. The U.S. Coast Guard
requirement for MARPOL placards on boats over 26 feet has increased awareness.
Awareness, and not enforcement, is prompting skippers to inform their charters to
"Stow it, don't throw it."
Cruise Lines
The cruise line industry is making progress in complying with the MARPOL
regulations and has begun separating wastes. However, recycling facilities are not
available at all ports. In addition, education of employees and passengers is still
sporadic. One cruise line has made a company policy to dismiss any employee that
discards trash overboard. Public awareness and interest in the environmental records
of companies has encouraged compliance. Illegal dumping reports may be filed with
the nearest U.S. Coast Guard Office.
Private and Nonprofit Organizations
Center for Marine Conservation (CMC)
In 1986, CMC developed a detailed data card for use in the first Texas Coastal
Cleanup. That data card is now distributed to beach cleanup volunteers nationwide
and in several foreign countries to facilitate the standardization of marine debris
information. The data card includes 80 items under the categories of plastic,
polystyrene, glass, rubber, metal, paper, wood, and cloth. The cards also include
safety tips and sections for the name of the volunteer, beach cleaned, most peculiar
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item collected, stranded animals found, and sources of debris. The printing of more
than 100,000 data cards is paid for by EPA, NOAA, and USCG.
In 1986, CMC analyzed the data cards from the Texas Coastal Cleanup and, with
help from their marine debris steering committee, produced a detailed report on the
kinds and amounts of trash found on 16 Texas beaches. This report also included 50
recommendations to stop marine debris and was used by policy makers in
Washington, DC, as well as by the media. Since 1988, CMC has published a state-
by-state look at marine debris, listing the 12 most common items~"the Dirty
Dozen"—found in each state during statewide cleanups held nationally.
The data collected by volunteers has provided valuable information leading to the
passage of MARPOL V legislation and has aided in the Gulf of Mexico Special Area
designation under the MARPOL V Treaty. These data on marine debris have been
used by policy makers, the press, port directors, and users of the oceans.
CMC also conducts research on techniques for saving entangled animals and provides
information and technical advice to Congress, Federal and state agencies, and a
variety of local organizations.
Contacts: Ms. Linda Maraniss
Director, Gulf Coast Regional Office
Center for Marine Conservation
1201 West 24th Street
Austin, TX 78705
Ms. Heidi Lovett
Senior Programs Assistant, Florida Regional Office
Center for Marine Conservation
One Beach Dr. SE, Suite 304
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
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IV. THE UNFINISHED AGENDA -
Both Current Commitments and Uncommitted Activities
GOALS
The Gulf of Mexico Program established three goals for addressing the marine debris
problem:
• Eliminate the illegal disposal and careless loss of man-made solid waste in the
marine and coastal environments of the Gulf of Mexico;
• Eliminate existing debris from the marine and coastal environments of the
Gulf of Mexico; and
• Foster pride and stewardship and increase understanding of the marine and
coastal resources of the Gulf of Mexico (including the harmful effects of
marine debris) among the user groups of the Gulf of Mexico region.
STRATEGIES, OBJECTIVES, and ACTION ITEMS
The Gulf of Mexico Program hopes to accomplish these goals through four main
strategies: monitoring/assessment, cooperation/enforcement, pollution prevention, and
public outreach. Specific objectives are grouped according to these solution
strategies. Objectives are the specific, short-term targets for attaining the goals.
Each objective is followed by several activities, called action items, that describe
specific tasks that the Marine Debris Subcommittee has developed to meet the goals
and objectives for reducing marine debris.
Each action item is presented under the objective to which it most directly
contributes. Some action items are cross referenced to other action items and are
designated with a "-»" sign in the left-hand column. This signals a close relationship
among those actions and a need for coordination. Some of the activities listed are
already underway; these items contain a short "status" update on the progress of the
activity.
The Marine Debris Subcommittee has identified a lead agency for each action
item~the agency with the most authority or jurisdiction over the particular issue. This
does not necessarily mean that the agency has agreed to carry out the activity or that
the agency has the necessary funding to support this activity. The Marine Debris
Subcommittee understands these action items will require commitments by agencies
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and organizations that are dependent on budget decisions. However, the
Subcommittee members hope this document provides the rationale and support for
such commitments and that future iterations of this document will include additional
specific commitments.
Monitoring/Assessment
The amount, occurrence, distribution, source, and type of marine debris in Gulf of
Mexico waters and on shorelines is currently reported on a limited basis. Some
information has been gathered during beach cleanups sponsored by NFS, state parks,
and Adopt-A-Beach programs and by use of consistent data cards from the CMC
during national annual cleanups—but this is not enough. Current information should
be used to further refine a statistically valid baseline from which to monitor changing
conditions in the amounts and types of marine debris found throughout the five Gulf
States. Other activities, such as USCG inspections, recreation site maintenance, and
port disposal activities, can then be incorporated into the data base.
Specific objectives and action items under this strategy include:
OBJECTIVE - Monitor marine debris to assess land-based and
marine-based sources and their effects on wildlife, human health and
safety, and economics, as well as the effectiveness of measures
designed to eliminate marine debris in the Gulf.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: EPA Action Item 1 - Five-State Marine Debris Monitoring
Target Date: 1992 Program
-5
EPA HQ should, by 1992, design and implement a
standardized, statistically-valid, five-state Marine Debris
Monitoring Program for beaches and barrier islands of the
Gulf of Mexico, as well as nationwide, to establish a baseline
and support measures of improvement and assessments. To
accomplish this, EPA HQ will work with CMC, NOAA, and
others to design and test a survey methodology and monthly
sampling program for monitoring the type, quantity and
probable origin of marine debris. This national methodology
will be refined to meet the specific needs and objectives of the
Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris Monitoring Program, other
Federal agencies, and Gulf of Mexico state agencies.
Status: EPA HQ and CMC are working together to develop a
national methodology. GMP, via contract with the University
of Texas Marine Science Institute, is assisting in the effort
which is being tested in Maryland and New Jersey.
Lead: EPA Action Item 2 - Effect of River Inflow on Solid Waste
Target Date: 1992 Study
EPA should determine the effect of river inflow on the
quantity, type, and location of solid waste in the Gulf of
Mexico. In cooperation with the Freshwater Inflow
Subcommittee of the Gulf of Mexico Program and USGS,
EPA HQ and Regions IV and VI should select representative
rivers for evaluation and analysis. A consistent sampling
method and scheme suitable to the information needed should
be established at or near the mouths of Gulf of Mexico rivers
beginning in 1992.
Status: The Texas General Land Office has developed a
"Trash Tally" card for freshwater sources. It is used during
the Texas lakeshore and river cleanups. A Region IV NPDES
representative is working with GMP on this analysis of the
effect of solid waste inflow via rivers within the region.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 69
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: GMP Action Item 3 - Pilot Projects for General Storm Water
Target Date: 1992 Permits
-» 31, 33
The Gulf of Mexico Program Freshwater Inflow
Subcommittee and Nutrient Enrichment Subcommittee should
work with the Gulf States to develop proposals and seek
funding for pilot projects for general storm water permits to
test cost effective methodologies.
Lead: EPA Action Item 4 - Survey of Availability & Use of Trash
Target Date: 1991-2 Facilities in Gulf Ports
- 7, 14, 18
All major Gulf ports should be surveyed to determine what
new trash facilities have been built, or what plans have been
made with waste haulers, to comply with MARPOL V
legislation. This study should also document the number of
ships that have offloaded trash and the total tonnage of trash
offloaded since Annex V has come into force. The survey
should also record the amounts charged for offloading. The
surveys should be conducted and reviewed in 1991 and results
published by 1992.
Status: The Texas General Land Office has contracted with
Texas and Louisiana Sea Grant Offices to conduct a survey of
Gulf of Mexico Ports, Terminal Operators, and Waste
Management and Recreational Facility Operators on how
MARPOL Annex V is working, whether recycling is a
component, and what the costs are. This is targeted for
completion by late September 1991. Also, the Region IV
Marine Debris strategy includes a study which is intended to
address many of the issues related to the vessel waste handling
situation.
Lead: CMC Action Item 5 - Determination of Additional Sources of
Target Date: 1992 Marine Debris
-2
CMC should help determine additional sources of marine
debris found in the Gulf during 1992. To accomplish this,
CMC will provide data cards to volunteers during river
cleanups in all Gulf States and collect and analyze the data as
part of the National Marine Debris Database.
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Lead: NMFS Action Item 6 - Monitoring & Reporting System for
Target Date: 1992 Offshore Waters
-+1
NMFS should establish a monitoring and reporting system for
offshore waters in the Gulf of Mexico to assess the extent of
marine debris by 1992. Through aerial surveys and research
cruises conducted in the Gulf of Mexico, a recording system
should be established to assess the extent of and document
floating debris in the Gulf of Mexico.
Status: NMFS Pascagoula Laboratory has been conducting
aerial surveys since 1988 and recording the sighting and
position of all floating debris.
Lead: EPA Action Item 7 - Survey of Recycling Programs of Gulf
Target Date: 1992 Ports & Marinas
- 4, 14, 18
EPA Regions IV and VI should, by 1992, report on successful
recycling programs of Gulf Coast ports and marinas, develop
criteria for instituting such programs Gulf-wide, and provide
suggestions for involving the recycling industry. To
accomplish this, EPA regions will survey, as necessary, Gulf
Coast ports, docks, marinas, and access areas.
Lead: EPA Action Item 8 - Survey of Plastic Pellet Manufacturing
Target Date: 1991-2 Plants & Users
-J5
EPA HQ should work with the Society for the Plastics
Industry to survey plastic pellet manufacturing plants and
pellet users around Gulf coastal areas in 1991-92, to
determine where pellets are being lost to the marine
environment and recommend solutions to the problem. EPA
regions should follow-up on these report recommendations as
appropriate, including site visits and enforcement of NPDES
requirements.
Status: EPA HQ has already completed site visits to several
plastic pellet manufacturing plants in the watersheds draining
into the Gulf of Mexico and is developing recommendations
for this industry to control pellet loss (i.e. storm water
permits).
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: Marine Action Item 9 - Increase Distribution of Monitoring
Mammal Strand- Information
ing Network
Target Date: 1991 The Marine Mammal Stranding Network for the Southeast
Region should assist existing Gulf State stranding networks to
increase the distribution of monitoring information on stranded
animals that have ingested or become entangled in marine
debris, beginning in 1991.
Cooperation/Enforcement
The effective control of marine debris in the Gulf of Mexico will require attention to
international sources. Debris from 33 countries was reported on Gulf beaches; most
was of Latin American or Asian origin. Securing the cooperation of foreign
governments and fleets will require a long-term commitment of financial and
organizational resources.
Although laws and programs designed to prevent marine debris exist, they are not
fully enforced. For example, USCG is the agency responsible for enforcing Federal
law, but enforcement is limited by lack of funds and competition with many other
USCG programs and priorities in the Gulf. This is true not only of state and Federal
laws, but also of city and county ordinances. Inadequate enforcement usually results
from competing priorities among programs, inadequate funding, or lack of expertise
in developing needed ordinances and programs.
Specific objectives and action items under this strategy include:
OBJECTIVE - Coordinate and secure the enactment of and
compliance with Federal, state, and local laws and regulations to
prevent pollution by solid waste in the Gulf of Mexico from both
land-based and offshore sources.
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The Unfinished Agenda
Chapter IV
Lead: States
Target Date: 1992
Lead: EPA
Target Date:
Ongoing
Action Item 10 - State Implementation of Federal Laws
Each Gulf State should enact laws or develop regulations to
implement the Marine Plastics Pollution Research and Control
Act, Shore Protection Act, Coastal Zone Management Act,
and the storm water management portion of the Clean Water
Act in state waters. The Gulf of Mexico Program will work
with state agencies and legislators to facilitate the transfer of
model legislation among all Gulf States by 1992. The
Mississippi Marine Litter Act should be used as an example of
model legislation for enforcing the provisions of the Marine
Plastics Pollution Research and Control Act.
Action Item 11 - Coordination & Technology Transfer
EPA HQ should work closely with other national programs
(such as NOAA and USCG) to coordinate activities and
provide technology transfer to the Gulf of Mexico Program
and Gulf States on new techniques and innovative approaches
for solving the marine debris problem. EPA HQ and Regions
IV and VI will participate in the Marine Debris Roundtable,
EPA Regional Marine Debris Coordinators meetings, and in
the completion of a national strategy.
Status: A draft strategy is being developed titled "The
National Strategy for Controlling the Release of Debris into
the Aquatic Environment."
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The Unfinished Agenda
Chapter IV
Lead: EPA
Target Date:
Winter 1991
Lead: GMP
Target Date:
Ongoing
-» 15, 16
Action Item 12 - Workshop on Shipboard Solid Waste
Management
EPA HQ should hold a workshop on Options for Shipboard
Solid Waste Management to bring the naval architects, EPA's
air enforcement personnel, the shipping industry, and other
commercial interests together to discuss safe, environmentally
sound options for handling solid waste regulated under
MARPOL V by Winter 1991.
Status: EPA HQ is working with the Marine Board of the
National Research Council to develop a committee and hold a
workshop on issues, problems, and the implementation of
MARPOL V. This project is in cooperation with NOAA,
USCG, the Maritime Administration, U.S. Navy, and the
Marine Mammal Commission. USCG has also completed an
inventory and certification of all port facilities serving
ocean-going vessels and major fisheries. This will enable an
analysis and comparison of efficient waste handling systems.
Action Item 13 - Coordination of State Boater's Pledge
Programs
The Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Subcommittee
and Public Education and Outreach Subcommittee should
facilitate coordination among the Boater's Pledge leaders in
each state by providing generic materials and program
guidance, coordinating annual meetings, and providing
communication through the Bulletin Board System, "Gulfline,"
and "Gulfwatch."
Status: The Gulf of Mexico Program started Boater's Pledge
pilot projects in each Gulf State in 1990, and held a Boater's
Pledge Workshop in June of 1991 to facilitate the planning of
a region-wide Boater's Pledge Program among the five Gulf
States.
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The Unfinished Agenda
Chapter IV
Lead: EPA
Target Date: 1991-2
- 4, 7, 18
Lead: USCG
Target Date: 1991
-* 13, 16
Lead: States
Target Date: 1992
-13, 15
Lead: TX GLO
Target Date: 1991
Action Item 14 - Awards Program for Trash Facilities
EPA Regions IV and VI should survey docks, marinas, and
access areas in the Gulf each year and establish an awards
program to recognize proper, easy-to-use, and cost-effective
trash facilities. This assessment should begin in 1991, and the
first awards should be presented in 1992. This award could
be coordinated with existing awards, such as "Take Pride in
America."
Action Item 15 -
Marine Debris Information in Boater
Safety Courses
USCG should support the Coast Guard Auxiliary and Power
Squadrons in Gulf Coast Marine Safety Offices by providing
them information on marine debris to distribute during boater
safety courses by 1991.
Status: The USCG Auxiliary has published information on
marine debris and is distributing it to all Gulf Coast
Squadrons. In addition, USCG is providing MARPOL V
information, as well as boater's pledge information, in all of
their boater safety courses.
Action Item 16 -
Marine Debris Information in Boating
Registration & Fishing License
Mailings
Gulf States should include information about marine debris in
boating registration and fishing licenses mailed in 1992. The
Gulf of Mexico Program will provide examples and materials
to state agencies as appropriate.
Status: This will be accomplished through the Boater's Pledge
Program where practicable.
Action Item 17 - Use of Shrimper Placards
The Texas General Land Office will transfer information
during 1991 to other Gulf States regarding the use of a
shrimper placard developed to meet USCG regulations.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: EPA Action Item 18 - Monitoring Disposal Facilities in Gulf
Target Date: 1991 Marinas
- 5, 7, 14
EPA Regions IV and VI should monitor Gulf marinas and
access areas to determine whether proper disposal facilities are
being provided as required under Public Law 100-220 and
state regulations where they apply, and take appropriate
actions by 1991.
Status: EPA Region IV has begun a region-wide survey of
marinas and small port facilities to determine the nature and
extent of successful waste handling facilities in Florida,
Mississippi, and Alabama.
Lead: GUP Action Item 19 - Citizen Pollution Patrols
Target Date: 1992
-» 20, 48 The Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Subcommittee
should encourage and promote the establishment of a
volunteer corps of "citizen pollution patrols" in the five Gulf
States. To accomplish this, the Subcommittee should
showcase successful prototype programs, emphasizing training
and support requirements, powers and authorities granted, and
accomplishments, at the Year of the Gulf Symposium in 1992.
Lead: CMC Action Item 20 - Procedures for Reporting Dumping
Target Date: 1992 Violations
-* 19, 48
CMC should distribute information throughout the Gulf region
on existing complaint procedures for reporting dumping
violations to appropriate enforcement entities. To accomplish
this, CMC should expand its program on reporting MARPOL
violations, started in New Jersey and Maryland, to include the
Gulf of Mexico region. CMC forms and educational
information developed for the East Coast pilot should be
adapted for use in the Gulf.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: CMC Action Item 21 - Translation of Educational Posters &
Target Date: 1992 MARPOL V Stickers into Foreign
Languages
CMC should develop posters and translate these and the
Center's MARPOL V sticker into languages spoken by vessel
masters on foreign ships (i.e., Philippine, Norwegian, Greek,
Japanese, Portuguese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Spanish).
These materials should be distributed to all Gulf ports for use
on foreign ships by 1992.
Status: CMC has already translated and printed MARPOL
stickers into Spanish and Vietnamese. Funding is not
currently available for distribution of these stickers.
Lead: GMP Action Item 22 - Prohibition of Mass Release of Lighter-
Target Date: 1992 Than-Air Balloons
The Gulf of Mexico Program Citizens Advisory Committee
should, by 1991, work with state legislators to secure
legislation to prohibit the mass release of lighter-than-air
balloons. To accomplish this, the CAC will present
legislators in Gulf States with information about the Florida,
Tennessee, and Delaware legislation, and will support or
conduct outreach activities, including the use of the CMC's
brochure, to inform the public about the dangers to wildlife
from the release of balloons.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: USCG Action Item 23 - Education of Passengers & Crew
Target Date: Members About Marine Debris
Spring 1992
USCG should ensure that all cruise line companies and U.S.
and foreign flag ships inform passengers and crew members
about marine debris, including laws and fines. This will be
accomplished by spring 1992 through incorporation of
pertinent information in safety instruction sessions given at the
beginning of each trip.
Status: USCG is currently working with the shipping and
cruise line industry to ensure that proper trash disposal
techniques become incorporated into safety information for
passengers and training materials for staff, particularly cooks
and food handlers. USCG is working through organized
boarding teams to inspect ships and is pursuing legislative
initiatives.
Lead: GMP Action Item 24 - Trash Containers on Recreational Boats
Target Date: 1991
The Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Subcommittee
should work with recreational boat manufacturers in all Gulf
States to incorporate trash containers in the design of boats.
The Subcommittee should also begin working with EPA
Headquarters, the five Gulf States, and boat manufacturing
companies to enact national legislation. This effort should be
initiated by 1991.
OBJECTIVE - Implement MARPOL Annex V in the Gulf Subregion
of the Wider Caribbean Basin (through USCG).
Lead: GMP Action Item 25 - Distribution of Technical Information
Target Date: 1991-2 to Wider Caribbean Countries
The Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris Subcommittee should
work with Caribbean Environment Program (CEP) to
distribute technical information about marine debris to
countries of the Wider Caribbean in 1991 and 1992. This
would include use of the CEPNEWS publication.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: NFS Action Item 26 - Marine Debris Survey To Include
Target Date: 1991 The Virgin Islands National Seashore
The National Park Service should include the Virgin Islands
National Seashore in the NFS Marine Debris Survey Program
by 1991, which would add debris monitoring to the existing
watershed monitoring program at the park.
Lead: GMP Action Item 27 - Distribution of Youth Material on
Target Date: Marine Debris & MARPOL V to
Ongoing Wider Caribbean Countries
Beginning in 1991, the Gulf of Mexico Program Public
Education and Outreach Subcommittee should work with the
Children's Alliance for the Protection of the Environment
(CAPE) to distribute youth materials on marine debris and
MARPOL Annex V to Wider Caribbean countries that are not
currently parties to MARPOL Annex V.
Lead: CMC Action Item 28 - Translation of Existing Educational
Target Date: 1992 Materials into Spanish
CMC should translate into Spanish existing educational
materials on marine debris and MARPOL, including "A
Citizen's Guide to Plastics in the Ocean." These documents
should be printed and distributed to Mexico, Cuba, and other
Spanish speaking nations in the Wider Caribbean in 1992.
Status: CMC has printed the data card and MARPOL stickers
into Spanish. The book, "A Citizen's Guide to Plastics in the
Ocean" has recently been translated into Spanish. Funds are
not currently available for the printing and distribution of the
translated edition.
OBJECTIVE - Designate and implement the provisions of a Special
Area designation of the Gulf of Mexico under MARPOL Annex V for
the Gulf Subregion by 1992.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: USCG Action Item 29 - Bilingual Educational Materials, Port
Target Date: 1992 Reception Facilities & Special Study
Recommendations
USCG and IMO should provide bilingual educational materials
on marine debris and MARPOL, promote port reception
facilities for solid waste handling in the Gulf of Mexico
Subregion, and implement special study recommendations by
1992
Status: IMO selected Economic Resources Limited from
England to conduct a survey of Caribbean ports. The results
of the survey will be used to put together a regional plan for
the implementation of reception facilities that will be funded
by the Global Environmental Fund of the World Bank. The
survey of U. S. ports conducted by the Coast Guard has been
completed. The survey concluded that "reception facilities are
available and adequate at all major ports visited. However,
services are often expensive and infrequently used."
Lead: OTA Action Item 30 - Economic Impact Assessment of
Target Date: 1992 U.S. Port Users
The Office of Technology Assessment should conduct an
economic impact assessment of all users of U.S. ports and
recommend a reasonable fee structure and incentives for
implementation of MARPOL V within the Gulf region by
1992.
Pollution Prevention
The most effective way to reduce and eliminate marine debris is to prevent it from
entering the system. It will cost far more to clean up pollution later than to prevent it
now. Potential initiatives include source reduction and recycling programs, as well as
general pollution prevention and waste minimization programs.
Pollution prevention should be a shared responsibility among all in the Gulf
region—Federal, state, and local governments, the private sector, and citizens. Waste
minimization is an area in which environmental and economic interests, through
reduced costs, liabilities, and regulatory burdens, clearly coincide. The Gulf strategy
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 80
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
promotes voluntary waste minimization by providing information, technology transfer,
and assistance to waste producers, and information to citizens.
Specific objectives and action items under this strategy include:
OBJECTIVE - Prevent pollution through education (multi-lingual)
and promotion of waste reduction, recycling, and special
manufacturing processes, and develop incentives where practical.
Lead: GMP Action Item 31 - Development of Storm Water Controls:
Target Date: 1992 Best Management Practices, Municipal
-» 3, 33, 34 Ordinances & Management Plans
The Gulf of Mexico Program Freshwater Inflow
Subcommittee, Nutrient Enrichment Subcommittee, and Toxic
Substance and Pesticide Subcommittee should work with EPA
Regions IV and VI and Gulf States during 1991 to develop
storm water controls which will include Best Management
Practices, municipal ordinances, and municipal management
plans.
Status: EPA is currently writing guidelines for the new
Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control Program required by
Section 6217 of the 1990 reauthorized Coastal Zone
Management Act.
Lead: NFS Action Item 32 - Expansion of Recycling Facilities for
Target Date: 1992 Beachusers
-+43
National Parks Service and Gulf States' county park agencies
should expand recycling facilities for users of beach areas
during 1992. The Texas pilot program should be used as a
model.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: EPA Action Item 33 - Recycling & Pollution Prevention in
Target Date: 1992 City Storm Water Management Plans
-» 3, 31, 34
EPA Regions IV and VI should include an emphasis on
recycling and pollution prevention in the development of city
storm water management plans applicable to cities with
populations over 100,000, by 1992.
Status: Region IV storm water management program is
working with GMP on the development of pollution prevention
requirements in city storm water management plans.
Lead: EPA Action Item 34 - Pollution Prevention in Industrial
Target Date: 1992 Storm Water Permits
-* 3, 31, 33
EPA Regions IV and VI should include pollution prevention
requirements in industrial storm water permits beginning in
1992.
Status: Region IV is investigating pollution prevention
requirements for industrial permits.
Lead: EPA Action Item 35 Targeting Pellet Manufacturing
Target Date: 1992 Facilities For General Storm Water
-»8 Permits
EPA HQ should target pellet manufacturing facilities for
storm water general permit regulatory requirements. This
issue should be addressed in the 1992 Report to Congress and
incorporated in amendments to appropriate regulations.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: OOC Action Item 36 - Solid Waste Management Practices for
Target Date: 1992 Oil & Gas Industry
The Offshore Operators Committee should facilitate the
development and implementation of sound solid waste
management practices for the oil and gas industry in the Gulf
of Mexico. Waste management programs should incorporate
waste minimization through bulk packaging and reuse, and
include the sorting and recycling of recyclable materials by
1992.
Status: The OOC has formed an ad hoc committee titled the
Environmental Waste-Recycling Committee to address these
issues. A four-step plan has been developed and approved by
the OOC Executive Committee. Step one is to develop an oil
and gas marine debris baseline. The investigation portion of
this step is complete with a final report due in November
1991. All four steps are scheduled to be completed by the end
of 1992.
Lead: OOC Action Item 37 - Storage & Transportation of Solid
Target Date: 1992 Waste in Closed Receptacles
-+38
In accordance with the Shore Protection Act, the OOC should
provide its operators with recommended waste management
practices, such as the storage and transportation of solid waste
in closed receptacles by 1992.
Status: The OOC's Waste-Recycling Committee has recently
met with individual companies to discuss existing waste
management practices. Information from this meeting will be
utilized to begin building a list of recommended practices.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: OOC Action Item 38 - Industry-Wide "No Polystyrene" Policy
Target Date: 1992
-+37 OOC should encourage its members not to use polystyrene
products offshore in order to facilitate an industry-wide "no
polystyrene" policy by 1992.
Status: Fifty percent of the oil and gas industry now have this
policy. This issue will be addressed in the OOC's Waste
Management Recommended Practices document discussed in
Action Item 37.
Lead: OOC Action Item 39 - Employee Education & Awareness
Target Date: 1992 Programs
OOC should continue and enhance, during 1992, employee
education and awareness programs, such as the "All Washed
Up" video. These programs should be targeted to offshore
personnel.
Lead: MMS Action Item 40 - Drum Education & Notification
Target Date: 1991 Program - Offshore Oil & Gas
-» 4 1 Operations
MMS should establish an education and notification program
by 1991 to help coastal jurisdictions and organizations identify
drums washing ashore from offshore oil and gas operations.
This will enable the targeting of responsible companies and
facilitate the removal of such drums.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: USCG Action Item 41 - Drum Education & Notification
Target Date: 1991 Program - Unknown Sources
-+41
USCG should establish an education and notification program
by 1991 to help coastal jurisdictions and organizations identify
drums washing ashore from unknown sources.
Status: All drums that are leaking should be reported to
1-800-424-8802. All other drums that are found should be
reported to the land owner or manager. A memorandum of
understanding has been signed between EPA, USCG, NFS,
and PAIS (Padre Island National Seashore) for removal of
drums on Padre Island National Seashore. EPA has agreed to
take the lead in a joint effort to investigate the sources of
these drums. EPA Regions IV and VI are working with the
State of Texas as it assumes responsibility for response,
on-scene command, and funding for drum removal on State
lands.
OBJECTIVE - Encourage the use of reusable, recyclable or
non-persistent materials as a substitute for disposable materials.
Lead: GSA Action Item 42 - Environmentally Benign Products
Target Date: 1992
-* 1 2 The General Services Administration should change the
Federal government procurement process by 1992 to make it
feasible for all agencies to purchase products that are
environmentally benign.
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The Unfinished Agenda
Chapter IV
Lead: States
Target Date: 1991
-+32 50
Action Item 43 -
Additional Trash Cans/Recycling Bins
Beaches
State Adopt-A-Beach programs should require more trash
cans/recycling bins at Gulf beaches by 1991. These programs
should inform appropriate localities where trash cans/recycling
bins are needed, using, where applicable, information from
the Texas survey of trash cans. Consideration should also be
given to securing state legislation.
Lead: States
Target Date: 1992
Action Item 44 -
State Purchasing at Recyclable
Products
Each Gulf State should, by 1992, enact legislation to
implement state purchasing of recyclable products, including
plastic.
Lead: GMP
Target Date: 1991
Action Item 45 -
Gulf-Wide Corporate Recycling
Council
The Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Subcommittee
should promote the establishment of a Gulf-wide corporate
recycling council by 1991, modeled after the Texas Recycling
Council. To accomplish this, the Texas General Land Office
will provide information on the process and model used by
Texas. The positive features of the Florida Business and
Industry Recycling Program should also be examined.
Public Outreach: Education and Involvement
People living in two-thirds of the United States ultimately affect the environmental
quality of the Gulf of Mexico. Therefore, effective pollution prevention requires an
ongoing commitment from an informed citizenry. Public outreach nurtures such a
commitment. Public information, education, and involvement are three components
of an effective outreach strategy, which can reap significant benefits for the Gulf.
More and more, public outreach is recognized as an effective resource management
tool to address problems resulting from individual actions, such as the improper
disposal of household and vessel waste, and to create a sense of stewardship within
the community. A committed citizenry presents both a supplement and an alternative
to enforcement programs.
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The Unfinished Agenda
Chapter IV
Public outreach can foster recognition of the Gulf as a regional and national resource;
stimulate civic, governmental, and private sector support for changing lifestyles; and
develop the financial commitments necessary to preserve the resource. A strong
outreach program showing the effects human activities have upon the health of the
Gulf must enable all individuals, whether living on the coast or along the upper
stretches of the Mississippi, to see themselves as caretakers of a vital, shared
resource.
Specific objectives and action items under this strategy include:
OBJECTIVE - Support and facilitate activities that encourage
cleanup and appreciation of coastal waters.
Lead: GMP
Target Date:
1991, Ongoing
Action Item 46 -
Lead: States
Target Date:
Ongoing
Gulf-Wide Coastal Cleanup & Marine
Debris Survey
The Gulf of Mexico Program Public Education and Outreach
Subcommittee, Marine Debris Subcommittee, and Citizens
Advisory Committee should facilitate the planning,
organization, promotion, and coordination of a volunteer
Gulf-Wide Coastal Cleanup and Marine Debris Survey each
fall during National COASTWEEKS and National Public
Lands Cleanup Month beginning in 1991. The data from
these activities will be combined in a comprehensive national
database.
Action Item 47 - Beach Cleanup Data Results
State coordinators in each Gulf State should fund the printing
and distribution of data results on Gulf-wide state beach
cleanups to provide feedback to beach cleanup volunteers
about their efforts and provide results to their citizens, beach
adoption groups, media, and state agencies. One method
would be to print and distribute the data results from the
CMC national report.
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The Unfinished Agenda Chapter IV
Lead: CMC Action Item 55 - Activity Book for Elementary Schools
Target Date: 1991
CMC should print and distribute free of charge throughout the
Gulf in 1991 their 92-page activity book for teachers and
elementary school children entitled "The Gulf of Mexico: A
Special Place."
Status: The activity book has been completed. Due to
corporate and foundation grants, CMC was able to begin free
distribution of the book in July 1991 to schools in Gulf States.
The demand for the book far exceeds the first printing of
7,000 books, and additional Junds are not currently available
to cover another printing and continued distribution of the
book Gulf-wide.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 90
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Conclusions
V. CONCLUSIONS
We intend this document to be a beginning, not an end. Our hope is that this Action
Plan will serve as an inspiration and a call to action for the thousands who live and
work in the Gulf of Mexico region. Marine debris robs the Gulf of its beauty, health,
and value. Only by tackling the marine debris problem through purposeful and
coordinated action can we hope to eliminate this unsightly and lethal presence from
our oceans and beaches.
Through the implementation of the action items highlighted in this Action Plan, we
can reduce and eventually eliminate marine debris from the Gulf of Mexico.
The Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Subcommittee
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 91
-------
Bibliography
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Amos, A.F., and P. Plotkin, "Anthropogenic and Natural Debris on a South Texas
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Stranded Marine Mammals from Florida." Abstract from The Second
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Bierce, R., S. ludicello, and K. J. O'Hara, A Citizens Guide To Plastics In The
Ocean: More Than A Litter Problem, Center for Marine Conservation,
Washington, DC, 1988.
Bolye, B., Second International Conference on Marine Debris, Honolulu, HI, April
2-7, 1989.
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Broutman, M. and D. L. Leonard, "The Quality of Shellfish Growing Waters in the
Gulf of Mexico," Notional Estuarine Inventory, Strategic Assessment Branch,
National Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration,
U.S. Department of Commerce, Rockville, MD, January 1988.
Brown, M., K. O'Hara, J. Kauffman, California Marine Debris Action Plan, Center
For Marine Conservation, San Francisco, CA, 1990.
Buff, V., and S. Turner, "The Gulf Initiative," Coastal Zone 1987.
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Culliton, T. J. , M. A. Warren, T. R. Goodspeed, D. G. Remer, C. M. Blackwell,
and J. J. McDonough, III, 50 Years of Population Change Along the Nation's
Coasts 1960-2010, Maryland, 1990.
Day, R.H. "Plastics in The Sea," Selected Papers from the Sixth International Ocean
Disposal Symposium, Pacific Grove, CA, 21-23 April 1986.
Day, R. H. , D. G. Shaw. "The Distribution, Abundance, and Characteristics of
Marine Debris in the North Pacific Ocean, 1984-88." Abstract from The
Second International Congress on Marine Debris, Honolulu, Hawaii, 2-7 April
1989.
Debenham, P. "Education and Awareness: Keys to Solving the Marine Debris
Problems," Abstract from The Second International Congress on Marine
Debris, Honolulu, HI, 2-7 April 1989.
"The Dirty Seas," Time, Aug 1, 88 v. 132, n5, pp. 44-47.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 93
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Farrell, J.G. "Plastic Pollution in the Marine Environment: Boaters Can Help
Control a Growing Problem," Water Resources Division, Geological Survey,
Reston, VA. July 1988.
Fowler, C.W. "An Evaluation of the Role of Entanglement in the Population
Dynamics of Northern Fur Seals on the Pribilof Islands," Proceedings of a
Workshop on the Fate and Impact of Marine Debris, 27-29 November, 1984,
Honolulu, HI, (R, S, Shomura and H. O. Yoshida, editors.) 1985.
Fowler, C.W. "Marine Debris and Northern Fur Seals: A Case Study." Abstract
from Plastics in the Sea. Selected Papers from the Sixth International Ocean
Disposal Symposium Pacific Grove, CA, April 21-25, 1986 Wolfe, D.B.
(ed.) Marine Pollution Bulletin, Vol. 18, No. 6B, 1987.
Fowler, C. W. "Studies of the Population Level Effects of Entanglement on Northern
Fur Seals," Abstract from The Second International Congress on Marine
Debris, Honolulu, HI, 2-7 April 1989.
Henderson, J. R. "Recent Entanglements of Hawaiian Monk Seals in Marine Debris,"
Abstract from The Second International Congress on Marine Debris,
Honolulu, HI, 2-7 April 1989.
Heneman, B., Persistent Marine Debris in the North Sea, Northwest Atlantic Ocean,
Wider Caribbean Area, and the West Coast ofBaja California, Center for
Environmental Education, Washington, DC, 1988.
Gulf of Mexico Program, Materials in support of Designation of the Gulf of Mexico
as a Special Area under Annex V ofMARPOL. 1990.
Horsman, P.V. "The Amount of Garbage Pollution from Merchant Ships," Marine
Pollution Bulletin, 13(5). 1982.
Horsman, P.V. "The Amount of Garbage Pollution from Merchant Ships," Marine
Pollution Bulletin, 15(5): 167-169, 1982.
Horsman, P.V. "Garbage Kills" BBC Wildlife: 391-393. August 1985.
Karter, S., R.A. Milne, M. Sainsbury, "Polystyrene Waste in the Severn Estuary,"
Marine Pollution Bulletin IV, pp. 44, 1976.
Karter, S., R.A. Milne, M. Sainsbury, "Polystyrene Spirules in the Severn Estuary -
A Progress Report," Marine Pollution Bulletin VII, pp. 52, 1973.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 94
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King, W.B. 1984. "Incidental Mortality ofSeabirds in Gillnets in the North Pacific."
pp. 709-715 in J.P. Croxall, P.G.H. Evans and R.W. Schreiber, eds. Status
and Conservation of the World's Seabirds. International Council for Bird
Preservation. ICBP Technical Publication No. 2.
Johnston, J. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. May 1991. Personal communication.
Keeney, T. R. E., Report of the Interagency Task Force on Persistent Marine Debris.
May 1988.
Mackenzie, W. H. "The Trashy Sea Around Us." Defenders, 62(3): p30-38. 1987.
National Academy of Sciences. "Assessing Potential Ocean Pollutants," Washington,
DC. 1975.
National Academy of Sciences. "Marine Litter." Assessing Potential Ocean
Pollutants, A report of the Study Panel on Assessing Potential Pollutants to the
Ocean Affairs Board, Commission on Natural Resources, National Research
Council, Washington, DC. 1975.
National Marine Fisheries Service. "Marine Recreational Fishery Statistics Survey,
Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, 1985," Current Fishery Statistics, No. 8327, 8328;
1986.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. "Gulf of Mexico Subsystem,"
Southeast Ecosystems Plans. Southeast Fisheries Service, Draft, 1988.
NOAA/Office of Ocean and Coastal Resources Management. "Marine Debris: Status
Report and Bibliography," U. S. DOC, NOAA/NOS/OCRM, Technical
Assistance Bulletin #104. Washington, DC. 1991.
O'Hara, K.J. "Plastic Debris and Its Effects on Marine Wildlife." Conservation
Challenges. Article released by the Center for Marine Conservation.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 95
-------
Parker, M., P.E. A Report on Offshore Operators' Waste Management Practices.
Offshore Operators Committee, Fisheries Subcommittee. December 1990
Peart, L. "Marine Debris on the Beaches of Padres Island National Seashore," Paper
presented at Minerals Management Service Information Transfer Meeting,
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American Society of Civil Engineers, New York. N. Y. 1989.
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Proceedings of America's Seas First Biennial Symposium: The Environmental
and Economic Status of the Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans, LA, December
2-5, 1990.
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Surveys," Abstract from The Second International Congress on Marine Debris,
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Their Environmental Effects and Coastal Measures," Abstract from The
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of Marine Debris Honolulu, HI. 1985.
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Plastic Ingested by Hawaiian Seabirds," Abstract of The Second International
Congress on Marine Debris, Honolulu, HI, 2-7 April 1989.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 96
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Bibliography
Statement of Dr. Donald F. Boesch to the Subcommittee on Fisheries and Wildlife
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A Review of Educational and International Materials on Marine Debris in the
Gulf of Mexico," Texas General Land Office, Austin, TX. 1990.
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September 1987, April 1988 with Summary Data from Other Coastal States:
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and Recommendations," 1985.
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communication.
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Gas Operations, Gulf of Mexico OCS Region," February 1991.
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Smithsonian, v 18, n!2, (March, 1988), pp. 58-68.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan 97
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Appendix A
Acronym Guide
ACRONYM GUIDE
ACAMP Alabama Coastal Area Management Program
ADECA Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
ADEM Alabama Department of Environmental Management
APHIS Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services
CAC Citizens Advisory Committee, Gulf of Mexico Program
CAPE Children's Alliance for the Protection of the Environment
CEP Caribbean Environment Program
CMC Center for Marine Conservation
CWA Clean Water Act
DOD Department of Defense
EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency
FWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
GMP Gulf of Mexico Program
IMO International Maritime Organization
MARAD Maritime Administration
MARPOL International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution
from Ships
MMS U.S. Minerals Management Service
MMPA Marine Mammal Protection Act
MPPRCA Marine Plastic Pollution, Research, and Control Act of 1987
MPRSA Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act
NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NPS National Park Service
OCS Outer Continental Shelf
ODBA Ocean Dumping Ban Act
OOC Offshore Operators Committee
OTA Office of Technology Assessment
PAIS Padre Island National Seashore
PRB Policy Review Board, Gulf of Mexico Program
SCS Soil Conservation Service
SPI Society of the Plastics Industry
TSC Technical Steering Committee, Gulf of Mexico Program
TX GLO Texas General Land Office
UNEP United Nations Environment Programme
USCG U.S. Coast Guard
USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture
USGS U.S. Geological Survey
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
A-1
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
GULF OF MEXICO
MARINE DEBRIS
INFORMATION SURVEY
A Review of Educational and Informational Materials
on Marine Debris in the Gulf of Mexico
Texas General Land Office
Garry Mauro, Commissioner
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program
Austin, Texas
October 1991
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-1
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Table of Contents
Preface 3
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations 4
Educational Materials 12
Audio Visuals 12
Brochures 16
Fact Sheets/Fliers 20
Newsletters 23
Posters 24
Stickers and Decals 26
Other Educational Media 27
Legislation 29
Federal 29
Alabama 32
Florida 32
Louisiana 32
Mississippi 33
Texas 33
Public Awareness/Marine Debris Reduction Programs 35
Adopt-A-Beach Programs 35
Coastal Cleanup Programs 35
Other Programs 37
Publications and Reports 39
Scientific Data and Research Projects 46
Scientific Data 46
Research Projects 47
Workshops and Conferences 49
Marine Debris Education and Information Inventory Form 52
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-2
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Preface
This Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris Information Survey was prepared by the Center
for Marine Conservation for the Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program under the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Gulf of Mexico Program, Marine Debris
Subcommittee. The survey was conducted to review all educational and informational
materials available to date on marine debris in the Gulf of Mexico to provide a means
for the Marine Debris Subcommittee to identify gaps in information, avoid
duplication, and give direction to the Gulf of Mexico Program efforts.
This report contains listings of past, present, and future marine debris educational
materials, legislation, public awareness and marine debris reduction programs,
publications and reports, scientific data and research projects, and workshops and
conferences pertaining to the Gulf of Mexico. In some cases, educational and
informational materials that are national in scope are included where they may have
direct applications to the Gulf of Mexico.
Entries are categorized by type of material or information and arranged alphabetically
by title within that category. In general, each entry is listed as in the following
example:
Sample: All Washed Up (video)
Offshore Operator's Committee, 1986
Educational video for offshore oil and gas industry workers...
13 minutes, $48.50 for 1/2" VHS format... tapes.
Contact: Great Ideas Productions
Key: Title of material
Author(s) and/or producer(s), date
Description
Length and cost if any
Contact(s) for the resource:
The complete address, telephone number, and individual for each contact is provided
in the list of Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations.
Also included is a Marine Debris Education and Information Inventory Form so that
this report can be updated. A copy of this form can be found at the end of this
report.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-3
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations
Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
Coastal Programs Office
10936-B U.S. Highway 998
Fairhope, AL 36532
Phillip Hinesley
Alabama Department of Environmental Management
2204 Perimeter Road
Mobile, AL 36615
(205) 479-2336
John E. Marshall
Cameron County Parks Department
P.O. Box 2106
South Padre Island, TX 78597
(512)761-5493
Ken Conway
Center for Marine Conservation, Florida State Office
One Beach Drive, SE Suite 304
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(813) 895-2188
Heidi Lovett
Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States Regional Office
1201 West 24th Street
Austin, TX 78705
(512) 477-6424
Linda Maraniss
Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
1725 DeSales Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 429-5609
Betsy Schrader
Clean Florida Commission
605 Suwannee St., MS-2
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0450
(904) 488-2756
Frank Walper
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-4
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations
Florida Department of Environmental Regulation
Coastal Zone Management Section
2600 Blair Stone Rd.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400
(904) 488-6221
Cindy Cosper
Florida Department of Natural Resources
Office of Marine Programs & Planning
3900 Commonwealth Blvd., Room 1002F
Tallahassee, FL 32399
(904) 488-2960
Fritz Wettstein
Florida Marine Fisheries Commission
2540 Executive Center Circle W.
Suite 106
Tallahassee, FL 32301
(904) 487-0554
Florida Sea Grant College Program
G022 McCarty Hall, University of Florida
Gainesville, FL32611
(904) 392-1771
Jay Humphries
Great Ideas Productions
17412 New Zion Church Road
Covington, LA 70433
(504) 893-2954
Nelson S. Funk or Jacqueline Dacre
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory
Marine Education Center and Aquarium
115 Beach Boulevard
Biloxi, MS 39530
(601) 374-5550
Sharon Walker or Jay Dawes
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-5
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations
Gulf Islands National Seashore
U.S. National Park Service
3500 Park Road
Ocean Springs, MS 39564
(601) 875-0074
Gail Bishop
Keep America Beautiful Inc.
Pascagoula KAB Coordinator
P.O. Box 908
Pascagoula, MS 39567-0908
(601) 762-8443
Annie Mai Jamison
Keep Florida Beautiful, Inc.
401 West College Avenue
Tallahassee, FL 32301
(904) 561-0700
(800) 828-9338
Rosemary Prince
Keep Texas Beautiful, Inc.
P.O. Box 2251
Austin, TX 78768
(512) 478-8813
Sue Ann Wade-Crouse
Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism
Office of Litter Control and Recycling Commission
900 Riverside North
P.O. Box 94291
Baton Route, LA 70804-94291
(504) 342-8148
Barbara Ann Coltharp
Lousiana Geological Survey
Box G, University Station
Baton Route, LA 70893
(504) 388-5320
Dianne M. Lindstedt
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-6
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations
Louisiana Sea Grant College Program
Center for Wetlands Resources
Louisiana State University
Baton Route, LA 70803-7507
(504) 388-6449
Michael Liftman or Elizabeth Coleman, Linda Skupien
Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium
703 East Beach Drive
P.O. Box 7000
Ocean Springs, MS 39564-7000
(601) 875-9341
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks
Bureau of Marine Resources
2620 Beach Boulevard
Biloxi, MS 39560
(601) 385-5882
Dave Ruple
Minerals Management Service
U.S. Department of Interior
Gulf of Mexico OCS Region
1201 Elmwood Park Boulevard
New Orleans, LA 70123-2394
(504) 736-2780
Villere Reggio
NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
c/o Center for Marine Conservation
1725 DeSales Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 429-5609
Betsy Schroder
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Marine Fisheries Service
Marine Entanglement Research Program
Alaska Fisheries Center
7600 Sand Point Way N.E., F/AKC
BIN C15700
Seattle, WA 98115-0070
(206) 526-4009
James Coe
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-7
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations
National Marine Fisheries Service
Mississippi Laboratories
3209 Frederick Street
P.O. Drawer 1207
Pascagoula, MS 39568-1207
(601) 762-4591
Karen Mitchell
National Marine Fisheries Service
Regional Director
9450 Koger Blvd.
St. Petersburg, FL 33702
(813) 893-3141
Andrew J. Kemmerer
National Park Service
Division of Wildlife and Vegetation
P.O. Box 37127
Washington, DC 20013-7127
(202) 343-8128
Marine Debris Coordinator, c/o Bill Greg
National Technical Information Service
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
(703) 487-4650
Offshore Operator's Committee
Exxon USA Inc.
P.O. Box 60626
New Orleans, LA 70160
(504) 561-4766
Mike E. Parker
Organized Fishermen of Florida
P.O. Box 740
Melbourne, FL 32902-0740
(407) 725-5212
Michael Barile
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-8
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations
Padre Island National Seashore
National Park Service
9405 South Padre Island Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78418
(512) 949-8173
John D. Hunter
Peace River Wildlife Center
P.O. Box 512209
Punta Gorda, FL 33950-512209
(813) 637-3830
Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary
18328 Gulf Boulevard
Indian Shores, FL 34635
(813) 391-6211
Ralph Heath
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX 77843
(409) 845-7784
Pamela Plotkin
Texas General Land Office
Stephen F. Austin Building
1700 North Congress Avenue, Room 837
Austin, TX 78701-1495
1-800-85-BEACH or (512) 463-5108
Angela Farias
Texas Sea Grant College Program
Texas A&M University at Galveston
P.O. Box 1675
Galveston, TX 77553-1675
(409) 740^460
Amy Broussard
Texas Shrimp Association
403 Vaughn Building
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 476-8446
Lucy Gibbs
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-9
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations
Texas State Aquarium
P.O. Box 331307
Corpus Christi, TX 78463
(512) 881-1344
Val Waisanen
U.S. Coast Guard
Office of Navigation Safety and Waterway Services
Washington, DC 20593-0001
(202) 368-5647
Carl Crampton
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Headquarters
410 M Street SW
Washington, DC 20460
(202) 245-4367
Dave Redford
Susan Jackson
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Gulf of Mexico Program
Building 1103, Room 202
John C. Stennis Space Center
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529
(601) 688-3726
Douglas Lipka
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 4
345 Courtland Street, N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30365
Lloyd Wise
Jeff Kellam
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 6
External Affairs
1445 Ross Avenue
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 655-7145
Laura Radde
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-10
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Agencies, Institutions, and Organizations
U.S. Navy
Office of Chief of Naval Operations (OP-452)
Department of the Navy
Washington, DC 20350-2000
(202) 692-5572
Larry Koss
University of Texas
Marine Science Institute
750 Channel View
Port Aransas, TX 78373
(512) 749-6720
Anthony Amos
Wildlife Care Center
SPCA of Broward County, Inc.
3200 SW Fourth Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
(305) 524-4302
Pamela Dortch
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-11
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Audio Visuals
Take Pride Gulfwide: an Action Plan for a Clean Gulf of Mexico
(video)
Texas General Land Office, 1991
The Video portrays the problems and some solutions of marine debris in the Gulf of Mexico.
18 minutes
Contact: Gulf of Mexico Program
All Washed Up (video)
Offshore Operator's Committee, 1986
Educational video produced for offshore oil and gas industry workers.
13 minutes, $48.50 for 1/2" VMS format or $69.00 for 3/4" format tapes
Contact: Great Ideas Productions
Clean Ocean Campaign (public service announcement)
Center for Marine Conservation, 1990
Features Popeye the Sailor and Olive Oyl in a sailboat coming across Brutus dumping plastics.
Cartoon characteros of seals and sea turtles are shown affected by plastics. "I cans't do it by meself
maties, I needs your help" states Popeye after which the 1-800-CMC-CLEAN number appears
encouraging viewers to call for more information on marine debris and beach cleanups.
30 seconds
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
Commercial Fisherman Slide Show
Center for Marine Conservation, 1987
Educational slide program and accompanying script produced for commercial fishermen with
information on how they can help reduce the marine debris problem.
62 slides and script, can be borrowed at no charge or purchased for $25.
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Don't Mess With Texas Beaches (video)
Texas Sea Grant College Program, in preparation
Information on the hazards posed by marine debris to wildlife and tourism and information on
MARPOL Annex V. Produced for junior high school students.
Estimated 20-28 minutes, $20
Contact: Texas Sea Grant College Program
Flotsam and Jetsam: Killing Our Seas (video)
Florida Crossroads Program #111
Describes marine pollution in Florida in 1988. Copies of the half-hour show can be purchased for
nonprofit public awareness use.
Contact: Florida Broadcasting Service, Inc., P.O. Box 200066, Tallahassee, FL 32316
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-12
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Audio Visuals
Lend a Hand in the Sand (video)
Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources, 1988
Examines the marine debris problem worldwide and in the context of the Mississippi coastal region.
Produced by the Gulf Coast Research Lab and the Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium.
Distributed to 95 public elementary schools in six southernmost coastal counties of Mississippi.
13.5 minutes
Contact: Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium or Gulf Coast Research Laboratory
Marine Refusal Disposal Project (video)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 1988
Details the pilot project at the Port of Newport, Oregon which was developed to handle shipboard
generated wastes.
9:08 minutes, $10 (this video tape is sold together with the "Trashing the Oceans" video program listed
below).
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Marine Debris and Entanglement Slide Show
Center for Marine Conservation, 1988
Educational slide program and accompanying script developed for the general public examines the
types, sources, and problems caused by marine debris and efforts to combat the problem.
47 slides and script, $25
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Plastics are a Different Kind of Trash (video)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1988
Provides information on the marine debris problem particularly as it relates to offshore oil and gas
industry workers.
18 minutes
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Stash Your Trash (slide show)
Stash Your Trash Educational Program, Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources, and
Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium, 1989
Discusses various problems associated with marine debris and encourages responsible disposal of trash
by recreational boaters.
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources or Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-13
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Audio Visuals
Take Pride Glllfwide (public service announcement)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Gulf of Mexico Program, 1990
This video was distributed to all five Gulf States. Features a character in dolphin costume that emerges
from the water carrying a full bag of trash and walks down the beach to a house where the trash is
dumped on a kitchen table. Last 8 seconds used for a filler for each particular state's anti-beach litter
message.
30 seconds
Contact: Texas Sea Grant College Program
Take Pride Gulfwide Mississippi Coastal Cleanup (video)
Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources, 1988
Information on the September 1988 Mississippi beach cleanup.
No longer available
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
The Challenge On The Coast
Conserving America Series Documentary - shown on PBS in 1989
Contact: WQED, 4802 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program (slide show)
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1987
Describes the various problems caused by the presence of plastics and trash in the marine environment
and the Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program's efforts to clean up the Gulf coast.
45 slides
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Trashed-Out Texas Beaches (video)
Texas Sea Grant College Program, 1987
Discusses marine debris in terms of its effects on marine life and Texas beaches. Features country
rock band.
No longer available.
Contact: Texas Sea Grant College Program
Trashing the Oceans (video)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1987
Examines the problems of plastic marine debris and discusses efforts to combat the problem.
Developed for general public audiences.
7:30 minutes, $10. (This video tape is sold together with the Marine Refuse Disposal Project video
program listed above.)
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-14
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Audio Visuals
Trash Over the Side Means Trash on the Beaches (public service
advertisement)
Texas Sea Grant Program and Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1988
Features Lucky the trained dolphin retrieving a bottle after it is tossed overboard by a boater. Lucky
heaves the bottle back at the offender, followed by a warning from musician Joe "King" Carrasco
"Trash over the side means trash on the beaches and my friend Lucky is tired of it. So hey, don't
mess with Texas beaches."
30 seconds
Contact: Texas Sea Grant College Program (not available to the general public)
United States Navy Plastics Waste Management Program Video
Presentation Selections
U.S. Navy, 1989
Video includes six program selections on marine debris including "Plastics Waste at Sea," a 12-minute
program specifically developed for the Navy on the marine debris problem and features singer Huey
Lewis); a three-minute message from the Vice Commander; eight 30-second public service
announcements; a copy of a three-minute news clip on marine debris produced by Navy News This
Week; a copy of a three-minute news clip from ABC News; and the seven-minute video produced by
the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Trashing the Oceans (see shipboard plastic
waste management program and is part of package entitled "Ship's Guide to Recent Navy Initiatives for
Shipboard Solid and Plastics Waste Management."
Not available to the general public, intended for naval personnel only.
Contact: U.S. Navy, Chief of Naval Operations
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-15
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Brochures
Adopt-A-Beach Program
Texas General Land Office ,1991
Informational brochure on marine debris and Adopt-A-Beach and Lakeshore Cleanup Programs.
3 panels
Contact: Texas General Land Office
A seabird could mistake this resin pellet for a fish egg. And die.
Center for Marine Conservation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and The Society of
the Plastics Industry, 1987
Developed for the plastics industry with specific information on the problems caused by plastic resin
pellets in the marine environment and recommended actions for industry.
8 panels
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office or The Society of the Plastics Industry
Be a Beach Buddy: 4th Annual Texas Coastal Cleanup
Center for Marine Conservation and Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1989
Promotional brochure for September 1989 Texas Coastal Cleanup. Summarizes data collected from
1986, 1987, and 1988 beach cleanups.
10 panels
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States Regional Office or Texas Adopt-A-Beach
Program
Be a Beach Buddy: Texas Coastal Cleanup September 19, 1987
Center for Marine Conservation, 1987
Promotional brochure for September 1987 Texas Coastal Cleanup with facts on marine debris and
entanglement.
10 panels
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States Regional Office or Texas Adopt-A-Beach
Program
Boater's and Fisherman's Pledge/Take Pride Gulf Wide
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1990
Defines the marine debris problem and encourages retrieval and proper disposal of trash generated in or
recovered from the Gulf of Mexico. Included is a form inviting personal commitment by boaters to
help protect the Gulf of Mexico.
6 panels
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-16
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Brochures
Everyone's Trash Hurts Someone Sometime
Center for Marine Conservation and Texas Sea Grant College Program, 1989
Prepared for commercial fishermen in the Gulf. Documents fishing vessels that have been damaged by
marine debris, provides Texas beach cleanup data in terms of items found that are generated by
fishermen, and summarizes MARPOL Annex V and the U.S. Coast Guard's role in its enforcement.
8 panels
Contact: Texas Sea Grant College Program or Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States
Regional Office
Great Texas Beach Trash-Off
Texas Adopt-A-Beach and Keep Texas Beautiful, Inc., 1990
Promotion for April 7, 1990 beach trash sculpture contest. Also describes spring cleanup's plastics
recycling program.
7 panels
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Help for Hooked Birds
Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, 1981
Details procedures for the safe release of pelicans and other seabirds that have ingested fishing hooks or
become entangled in monofilament fishing line.
8 panels
Contact: Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary
Lend a Hand in the Sand: September Sweep of the Beach 1987
Louisiana Sea Grant Program, 1987
Promotion for September 1987 Louisiana beach cleanup with information on entanglement,
recommendations for stowing and recycling trash, and a list of state and local beach cleanup zone
coordinators with map of coastal cleanup areas.
8 panels
Contact: Louisiana Sea Grant College Program
Lots of Litter: The Challenge for a Cleaner Coast
Louisiana Geological Survey, 1987
Focuses on importance of Louisiana's coastal zone as a resource and essential wildlife habitat, describes
nature and sources of marine debris, and includes brief summary of September 1987 beach cleanup.
8 panels
Contact: Louisiana Geological Survey
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-17
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Brochures
Louisiana Litter Watch: Adopt-A-Beach Program
Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, 1986
Describes Louisiana's Adopt-A-Beach Program with list of Adopt-A-Beach representatives by parish.
Provides an adoption agreement form.
4 panels
Contact: Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism
Our Water Planet is Becoming Polluted with Plastic Debris
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admnistration, 1988
Provides general overview of marine debris problem with recommended actions for individuals.
Developed as part of the Port of Newport Marine Refuse Disposal Project.
6 panels
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Recycle! Please, Our Children's Future Depends On It
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1990
Provides basic information on recycling, emphasizes environmental protection, and urges public
participation in local recycling programs. Includes information on six-pack ring entanglement and
volunteer beach cleanups.
12 panels
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Take Pride Gulfwide: Keep the Gulf Coast Beautiful
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Gulf of Mexico Program, 1989
Defines marine debris, outlines problems, and lists and describes Gulf Coast States beach cleanup and
Adopt-A-Beach programs. Produced by Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program.
6 panels
Contact: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Gulf of Mexico Program, or Texas Adopt-A-Beach
Program
This discarded line is done fishing. But it's not done killing.
Center for Marine Conservation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and The Society of
the Plastics Industry, 1988
Developed for recreational fishermen with information on marine debris problem, recommended
actions, and requirements of MARPOL Annex V.
8 panels
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-18
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Brochures
This discarded net is done fishing. But it's not done killing.
Center for Marine Conservation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminstration, and The Society of
the Plastics Industry, 1987
Developed for commercial fishermen with information on marine debris problem, recommended
actions, and requirements of MARPOL Annex V.
8 panels
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Tossing this trash overboard can leave death in your wake.
Center for Marine Conservation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and The Society of
the Plastics Industry, 1988
Developed for recreational boaters with information on marine debris problem, recommended actions,
and requirements of MARPOL Annex V.
8 panels
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Trash for Arts Sake! Beach Trash Sculpture Tour
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1990
Provides information on winning trash sculptures from the April 1990 contest held in Galveston and
announces fall 1990 Texas Coastal Cleanup.
6 panels
Contact: Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program
When it's done holding your ship's garbage, it could hold death for
some marine animals.
Center for Marine Conservation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and The Society of
the Plastics Industry, 1987
Developed for the commercial shipping industry with information on marine debris problem,
recommended actions, and requirements of MARPOL Annex V.
8 panels
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-19
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Fact Sheets/Fliers
Adopt-A-Beach Program "Don't Mess With Texas Beaches"
Texas General Land Office, 1990
Discusses the origin and past accomplishments of the Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program. Provides a
toll-free number for information on this program.
1 page
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Consumer Fact Sheet: Disposal of Plastics and Other Garbage in
Waters of the U.S.
U.S. Coast Guard, 1988
Outlines and defines key terms for U.S. regulations that implement MARPOL Annex V.
Ipage
Contact: U.S. Coast Guard
Florida is Experiencing a Neat Wave
Keep America Beautiful, 1989
Announces Florida's affiliation with Keep America Beautiful.
Ipage
Contact: Keep America Beautiful, Inc.
Guidelines for Reducing or Eliminating Trash and Debris in the Gulf
of Mexico: Notice to Lessees and Operators of Federal Oil and Gas
Leases in the Outer Continental Shelf, Gulf of Mexico OCS Region
Minerals Management Service, 1986
Provides information on marine debris problem traceable to oil and gas operations and recommends
marine debris education for offshore workers and trash management plan implementation.
2 pages, Reference number NTL #86-11
Contact: Minerals Management Service
Everything You Need to Know to Start an Adopt-A-Beach Program.
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1991
Provides information on how to initiate a statewide Adopt-A-Beach program.
Manual
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-20
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Fact Sheets/Fliers
Marine Debris Facts and Figures
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1987 (revised 1990)
Provides facts on use of plastics, sources of marine debris, and impacts on wildlife and the marine
environment.
8 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Marine Litter: A Dangerous Eyesore
Louisiana Sea Grant College Program, 1987
Describes problems of wildlife entanglement, decreased tourism, danger to beachusers, and hazards to
vessels caused by marine debris.
2 pages
Contact: Louisiana Sea Grant College Program
Operation Clean Sweep/We Take it to Port
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1989
Outlines year-long program and objectives of model port project in Texas developed to adequately
handle shipboard generated trash.
1 page
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Recyclers in the State of Louisiana
Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, 1988
Lists names, addresses, and telephone numbers of recycling centers throughout the state with
information on types of materials handled by each center.
9 pages
Contact: Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism
Stash Your Trash!
Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources and Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium, 1989
Lists various problems associated with marine debris and encourages responsible disposal of trash by
recreational boaters.
1 page
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources or Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-21
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Fact Sheets /Fliers
Take Pride Gulf Wide Beach Cleanup 1989
Minerals Management Service, 1989
Served as announcement of September 1989 Gulf-wide beach cleanup.
1 page
Contact: Minerals Management Service
The Take Pride Gulf Wide Beach Cleanup Will Be Held Saturday,
September 23
Minerals Management Service, 1989
Served as announcement of fall 1989 beach cleanups and list of state coordinators.
Ipage
Contact: Minerals Management Service
This is the End, Not the Beginning
Wildlife Care Center, 1986
Educational flier on the hazards to wildlife caused by plastic six-pack rings.
Ipage
Contact: Wildlife Care Center
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-22
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Newsletters
Coastal Connection
Provides information on marine debris problems and ongoing efforts to eliminate marine debris, and
promotes beach cleanups nationwide.
Biannually
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
Critter Cryer
Information for members of this non-profit center including articles on entangled animals which have
been taken for rehabilitation.
Monthly
Contact: Peace River Wildlife Center
Louisiana Update
Includes articles on recycling and volunteer cleanup programs
Quarterly
Contact: Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism
Texas Beach Bulletin
Includes articles on beach cleanups, coastal management, and other marine issues in Texas.
Quarterly
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-23
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Posters
Do Your Share to Show You Care - Rebeautification in Process
Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
Beach Cleanup Poster
Help for Hooked Birds
Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, 1988
Designed to educate fishermen and beachusers on how to release seabirds that have become entangled
in monofilament fishing line.
Contact: Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary
I Hope Ya Swabs Won't Be Thro win No Plastics Overboard
Center for Marine Conservation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and The Society of
the Plastics Industry, 1989
Four-color poster featuring Popeye the Sailor Man depicts problems caused by plastics in the marine
environment.
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Our Ocean Is Drowning. Stow Your Trash and Prevent Marine
Debris. It's the Law.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1988
Colorful poster depicts items of marine debris.
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Stash Your Trash
Misissippi Bureau of Marine Resources and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Gulf of Mexico
Program, 1987
Depicts pelican on a pole and lists actions to be taken to reduce marine litter.
Out of Print.
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
Stash Your Trash. It's the Law
Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Gulf of Mexico
Program, 1989
Served as announcement of 1989 Mississippi fall beach cleanup and state's enactment of a law to
enforce MARPOL Annex V regulations.
Out of Print.
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-24
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Posters
Stash Your Trash: Marine Litter is More Than an Eyesore
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1987
Depicts pelican on a pole and lists actions to be taken to reduce marine litter.
Out of Print.
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-25
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Stickers and Decals
Stow It, Don't Throw It!
Center for Marine Conservation, Texas Boating Trades Association, Texas Marina Association, 1987
Bumper sticker for boat trailers, 3" x 5"
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States Regional Office
Stow It, Don't Throw It! Take Pride Gulf Wide
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1990
Sticker, 3" x 5"
Contact: Texas General Lsnd Office
Take Pride Gulf Wide: Keep Our Coast Beautiful
Minerals Management Service, 1989
Bumper sticker, 3" x 13"
Contact: Minerals Management Service
Take Pride Gulf Wide: Minerals Management Service
Minerals Management Service, 1988
Decal, 4" diameter
Contact: Minerals Management Service
Take Pride Gulf Wide: Stash Your Trash Keep Mississippi Waters
and Shorelines Clean
Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium, 1989
Sticker, 3.5" x 5"
Contact: Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-26
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Other Educational Media
Don't Mess With Texas Beaches (coloring book)
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1988
Developed for elementary school children. Includes 4 songs about littering on the beach. 17 pages
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Face the Ocean Skit
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, 1988
A character in an "ocean drop" costume is interviewed by a "reporter" on the ocean. Skit includes
questions about marine debris and its effects on the marine environment.
Contact: Gulf Coast Research Laboratory
Joey Saves the Day! Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program Puppet Show
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program, 1988
Five minute puppet show features the Adopt-A-Beach mascot, "Lucky" the dolphin, and a young
fisherman named "Joey". This show has been peformed approximately 200 times per year since its
inception for elementary children at schools, libraries, and youth group meetings.
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Marine Debris: An Elementary School Public Awareness Program
Scranton Museum, Mississippi Marin Debris Trash Task Force, Mississippi Power Foundation 1989
Teachers packet designed for elementary school children. This packet was distributed to 95 public
elementary schools in six southernmost coastal counties of Mississippi. The packet is no longer
available.
Contact: Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Program or Dave Ruple c/o Mississippi Bureau of Marine
Resouces
Marine Debris Bibliography
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1989
Comprehensive bibliography containing information sources on marine debris.
Contact: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, NOAA
Marine Debris Display
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, 1988
Public display including wall exhibit and items of debris in aquarium depicting the problems caused by
marine debris.
Contact: Gulf Coast Research Laboratory
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-27
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Educational Materials
Other Educational Media
Marine Gang (actors and costumes)
Florida Sea Grant Extension Program, 1988
Traveling environmental education program on the coastal and marine environment for school children.
Contact: Florida Sea Grant College Program
Save Our Beaches (book mark)
Texas Attorney General's Office, 1987
Provides information on Texas' Open Beaches Act and public access to Gulf beaches with seven safety
tips for Texas beach cleanup volunteers.
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Texas State Aquarium Marine Debris Exhibit
Texas State Aquarium, 1990
Public display including visuals and discovery boxes depicting the problems caused by marine debris.
Exhibit highlights impacts of plastics and tar. Includes information on Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program
and beach cleanups.
Contact: Texas State Aquarium
Thanks matey, I couldn't do it without you
Center for Marine Consevation, 1989
Metal button features Popeye the Sailor Man and promotes the Clean Ocean Campaign
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
Report to Congress on Plastics Waste
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Stash Your Trash - Keep Mississippi Beaches Clean
Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
Metal button.
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Headquarters Library
Room2904PM-211A
Washington, D.C. 20460
(202) 382-5922
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-28
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Legislation
Federal
Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships
33 U.S.C. 1901 et seq.
As amended in 1987 by the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act, prohibits the discharge
of plastics and regulates the discharge of other garbage from ships in navigable waters of the United
States. Jurisdiction extends to any vessels operating in the navigable waters of the United States,
including the territorial seas, and to U.S. ships operating anywhere. This is the U.S implementing
legislation for the MARPOL Protocol and therefore also regulates the discharge of oil and hazardous
substances from ships.
Clean Water Act
33 U.S.C. 1251, 1262, 1311 et seq (also called Federal Water Pollution Control Act)
Establishes a means to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of U.S.
waters and control pollution. This law sets water quality standards and limitations on effluent from
point soruces, regulates discharges from point soruces, and prohibits discharge of toxic substances, oil,
or other hazardous substances.
Comprehensive Enviromental Response, Compensation, and Liability
Act
42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.
Provides a mechanism to act in the fact of substantial enviromental damage, and to address the costs of
enviromental cleanup associated with such action.
Degradable Plastic Ring Carriers
42 U.S.C. 6814
Enacted in October 1988, this law requies that by, October 1990, the U.S. Enviromental Protection
Agency shall require that any plastic ring carrier device intended for use in the United States shall be
made of naturally degradable material which, when discarded, decomposes within an established period
of time.
Endangered Species Act
16 U.S.C. 1531 etseq.
Provides a means whereby the ecosystems upon which endangered species and threatened spcies depend
may be conserved. Prohibits taking of any endangered or threatened species by any person subject to
U.S. jurisdiction. Take is defined as kill, trap, harass, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, capture or collect,
or attempt to engage in any such conduct.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-29
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Legislation
Federal
Fishery Conservation and Management Act
16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Established to conserve and manage the fishery resoruces found off the coast of the United States and
to promote sound conservation and management principles. Includes a prohibition on the disposal of
nets into U.S. waters by foreign fishermen operating in U.S. waters.
Marine Mammal Protection Act
16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.
Ensures that species and population stocks of marine mammals do not dimish beyond the point where
they cease to be a significant functioning element in the ecosystem of which they are a part.
Establishes a moratorium on taking marine mammals. Take is defined as harass, hunt, capture, or kill.
Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act
33 U.S.C. 1901
Prohibits the disposal by vessels of plastics at sea and regulates the disposal of other types of garbage.
This law amended the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships to include the provisions of MARPOL
Annex V. Jurisdiction extends to any vessels operating in the navigable waters of the United States,
including the territorial seas, and to U.S. ships operating anywhere, including public vessels. The term
vessel also includes fixed or floating platforms and vessels within 500 feet of these structures. Also
requires placards on garbage disposal limitations, waste management plants, reception facilities at ports
and marinas, citizen monitoring of beach debris, research on the effect of plastics in the marine
enviroment, and public education.
Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act
33 U.S.C. 1401 et seq. (also called the Ocean Dumping Act)
Regulates dumping at sea of all types of materials generated on land and prevents or strictly limits
ocean dumping of materials "...which adversely affect human health, welfare, or amenities, or the
marine environment, ecological systems, or economic potentialities." This is the U.S. implementing
legislation for the international London Dumping Convention.
Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988
42 U.S.C. 6992 et seq.
Enacted principally in response to growing public concern over medical waste washups on beaches, this
amendment to the Resouce Conservation and Recovery Act regulates generators and handlers of solid
and hazardous wastes and requires standards be set for proper separation, labeling, packaging, and
tracking of certain classes of medical waste from point of generation to point of disposal.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-30
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Legislation
Federal
Migratory Bird Treaty Act
16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.
Prohibits taking of migratory birds listed in treaties between the United States and Great Britain,
Mexico, Japan, and the Soviet Union.
Ocean Dumping Ban Act of 1988
33 U.S.C. 1401 et seq.
As an amendment to the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act, this law prohibits ocean
dumping of sewage sludge and industrial wastes after December 31, 1991, and also includes provisions
prohibiting public vessels from disposing of potentially infectious medical wastes at sea and toughens
the penalties for dumping medical wastes in the ocean.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976
42 U.S.C. 6901 et seq.
Promotes the protection of health and the environment by regulating the disposal of solid waste.
Rivers and Harbors Act of 1989
33 U.S.C. 4407 (also called The Refuse Act)
Prohibits discharge into navigable waters or their tributaries "any refuse matter of any kind or
description whatever other than that flowing from streets and sewers and passing therefrom in a liquid
state." Jurisdiction includes all internal navigable waters and extends to three miles.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-31
-------
Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Legislation
Alabama
Balloon Legislation (City of Huntsville)
1990
Prohibits intentional release of 10 or more balloons made of a nonbiodegradable materials, or a
biodegradable material that requires more than several minutes of contact with air or water to degrade,
and inflated with a gas that is lighter-than-air.
Florida
Florida Balloon Legislation
1989. Senate Bill #348 Chapater 89-113 Laws of Florida, Statues 372-995
Prohibits release of more than 10 lighter-than-air balloons within 24-hour period.
Florida Degradable Plastics Rule
1989. Chapter 17-707 Laws of FLorida, 372.995 F.S.
Establishes standards and criteria by which materials are determined to be degradable and procedures
by which manufacturers can apply to have their material or product determined to be degradable and
approved for distribution or sale in Florida including plastic. In addition, Section 400 of this law
entitled "Container Holding Devices" requires degradable plastic beverage container rings by July 1,
1989; Section 420 requires degradable plastic retail bags by January 1, 1990; and Section 440 requires
polystyrene foam and plastic-coated paper products used in conjunction with food effective one year
after the Enviromental Regulation Commission has determined by rule that such products meet certain
requirements.
Florida Litter Law, as amended 1990
1988. 403.413
Prohibits the unpermitted disposal of litter and human waste from planes, trains, motor vehicles, and
vessels; imposes penalties for dumping of human waste effective October 1,1993.
Louisiana
Louisiana Adopt-A-Beach Programs
1988. Enact R.S> 25: 1114.1
Authorized establishment of the Louisiana Adopt-A-Beach Program.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-32
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Legislation
Louisiana
Louisiana Litter Control Laws
1987. Senate Bill 193 ACT 235. Amends and re-enacts R.S. 25-111(A) & (B) and enacts R.S. 25:
111(E)& lll(A).
Extends existing laws and penalties for littering in rural area, adds existing penalties, and provides a
penalty for throwing litter from a "water vessel." R.S. 25:111(B)(5) prohibits littering from boats and
sets a fine of $100-$2,000 and a minimum jail term of six months.
Louisiana Litter Receptacle Placement Rule
1988. ACT 936, Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism: Litter Control and
Recycling Commission Adoption of Title 25, under Cultural Resources: Part V, Chapter 3:301, 303,
305, 307, 309, 313, 315, 317.
Sets and defines minimum standards and requirements for the placement of litter receptacles in public
areas.
Louisiana Solid Waste Recycling and Reduction Law
1989. House Bill 1199 Act 185
Requires degradable plastic beverage container rings by January 1, 1991.
Mississippi
Mississippi Marine Litter Act of 1989
Senate Bill 2675
As of July 1, 1989, prohibits the disposal by vessels of plastics and other garbage in marine waters of
Mississippi and provides penalties up to $500 for first offenses and $10,000 for subsequent violations.
Requires all marinas and other access areas used by vessels to have proper disposal facilities.
Texas
Texas Plastics Coding
1990. SB 444, 5-6-32-310
Requires plastic containers display a symbol indicating the type of resin used in their manufacture
imprinted on the container. Applies to all plastic bottles and rigid plastic containers that are
manfactured or distributed on or after July 1, 1991.
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-33
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Legislation
Texas
Texas Oil Spill Prevention and Response Act
1991. SB 14
The Texas General Land Office is in charge of marine oil spills and authorizes the GLO to take a
leadership role in the prevention of and response to spills.
Texas Omnibus Recycling Legislation
1991. SB 1340
This major waste management initiative provides for state procurement incentives and requirements;
used oil, tire, and battery recycling; environmental education; and a recycling market study.
Texas Comprehensive Coastal Management Legislation
1991. SB 1053
This major new coastal initiative includes provisions on beach access, dune protection, beach erosion,
and agency coordination.
Texas Protection and Enhancement of State-Owned Coastal Wetlands
1991. SB 1054
Guff of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-34
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Public Awareness and Marine Debris
Reduction Programs
Adopt-A-Beach Programs
Alabama Adopt-A Beach Program
Proposed to begin in October 1990
Contact: Alabama Department of Environmental Management
Florida Adopt-A-Shore Program
Not officially established as of September 1990
Contact: Keep Florida Beautiful, Inc.
Louisiana Adopt-A-Beach Program
Initiated in 1989
Contact: Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism
Mississippi Adopt-A-Beach Program
Initiated in September 1989
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program
Initiated in 1987
Adopting groups are assigned a section of coastline which they agree to clean two or three times per
year. Two cleanups take place during the major statewide Texas beach cleanups conducted each year,
spring and fall.
Contact: Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program
Coastal Cleanup Programs
Alabama Coastal Cleanup
Initiated in September 1988
Annual volunteer fall beach cleanup.
Contact: Alabama Department of Environmental Management
Florida Coastal Cleanup
Initiated in September 1988
Annual volunteer fall beach cleanup.
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Florida State Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-35
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Public Awareness and Marine Debris
Reduction Programs
Coastal Cleanup Programs
Great Texas Beach Trash Off
Initiated in April 1987
Annual volunteer spring beach cleanup.
Contact: Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program or Keep Texas Beautiful, Inc.
Louisiana September Sweep
Initiated in September 1987
Annual volunteer fall beach cleanup.
Contact: Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism
Mississippi Coastal Cleanup
Initiated in October 1987
Annual volunteer fall beach cleanup.
Contact: Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources
National Beach Cleanup and Marine Debris Database
Initiated in 1987
Annual volunteer fall beach cleanup using standardized data cards. This effort serves to coordinate all
beach cleanups in U.S. coastal states and territories including the five Gulf Coast States. Data
collected during these cleanups is compiled and analyzed in a final national report. The first national
beach cleanup took place in 1988, with subsequent cleanups in 1989 and 1990. The national program
also works with international groups in organizing beach cleanups. Funding for this program has been
provided in part by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, the Society of the Plastics Industry, the Council for Solid Waste Solutions, Dow
Chemical Company, the National Association of Plastic Container Recovery, and private contributions.
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
Texas Coastal Cleanup
Initiated in September 1986
Annual volunteer fall beach cleanup.
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States Regional Office, or Texas Adopt-A-Beach
Program
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-36
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Public Awareness and Marine Debris
Reduction Programs
Other Programs
Cameron County Parks Department Trash Bag Deposit-Return
Program
Initiated in 1988
Beach visitors at park pay SO cents and receive a trash bag and list of safety rules. Refunds are given
for returned filled bags.
Contact: Cameron County Parks or Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program
Compilation of Responses to Information Request on Beach Trash and Debris
April 1989
A questionnaire on the marine debris issue was sent to the directors of all five Gulf coast state natural
resource agencies responsible for maintaining Gulf parks and beaches. A five-page summary report is
available.
Contact: Minerals Management Service
Fisherman's Resolution on Marine Debris
Initiated in 1987
A three-part resolution outlines an effort to stow all trash and to retrieve any trash found at sea and
bring it to shore. The resolution encourages fish houses, marinas, and other land-based facilities to
provide trash receptacles and recycling programs.
Contact: Organized Fishermen of Florida
NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1988
This national clearing house distributes educational and informational materials on the marine debris
problem including 14 packets designed for specific groups or covering specific topics as follows:
elementary school children, secondary and high school children, teachers and educators, general public,
plastics recycling and degradability, offshore oil and gas companies, recreational boaters and fishermen,
commercial fishermen and processors, port and terminal operators, press and media personnel, plastics
industry, cruise ship passengers, cargo vessel operators or passengers.
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Offshore Operator's Committee Beach Litter Questionnaire
July 1990
The Offshore Operator's Committee, representing more than 70 companies that are involved in oil and
gas exploration and production in the Gulf of Mexico, distributed a questionnaire to the industry to
solicit suggestions for methods which might be implemented to eliminate the problem of beach litter
originating from offshore industry operations. A summary report of the survey results is available as
of October 1990.
Contact: Offshore Operator's Committee
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-37
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Public Awareness and Marine Debris
Reduction Programs
Other Programs
Operation Clean Sweep
Initiated in 1989
Pilot project designed to encourage commercial fishermen to properly dispose of shipboard-generated
trash and to retrieve and deliver marine debris caught in their nets to onshore collection stations. Three
Texas ports are participating in this project (Brownsville, Palacios, and Aransas Pass) by providing
facilities for collection of debris and arranging for its disposal.
Contact: Texas Shrimp Association, Texas General Land Office, or Texas A&M Sea Grant
Operation Trashmaster
Initiated in 1988
Louisiana recreational fishermen are encouraged to bring their litter back to port. This "Cast Your
Line Not Your Litter" Campaign was first implemented through Louisiana fishing rodeos.
Contact: Louisiana Sea Grant College Program
Texas Beach Cleanup Plastics Recycling Projects
Initiated in March 1990
In spring 1990, Texas beach cleanup volunteers in Galveston, Corpus Christi, Padre Island, and Padre
Island National Seashore separated plastic trash from other debris. The plastic was then reprocessed
and made into park benches. During the fall 1990 Texas Coastal Cleanup this project was expanded to
a statewide effort.
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-38
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Publications and Reports
Alabama Coastal Cleanup September 24, 1988: Get the Trash Out of
the Splash Summary Report
Alabama Department of Environmental Management, 1988
Summary of 1988 Alabama beach cleanup with list of zone captains, sample data cards and guide to
marine debris, sponsors, and local newspaper clippings.
31 pages
Contact: Alabama Department of Environmental Management
Alabama Coastal Cleanup September 23, 1988: Get the Trash Out of
the Splash Summary Report
Alabama Department of Environmental Management, 1989
Summary of 1989 Alabama beach cleanup with list of zone captains, sample data cards and guide to
marine debris, and newspaper clippings.
12 pages
Contact: Alabama Department of Environmental Management
All About Beach Cleanups
Center for Marine Conservation, 1989
Guide to organizing a beach cleanup with information on data collection and publicity, and examples of
successful cleanup programs.
30 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Citizens Guide to Plastics in the Ocean
Center for Marine Conservation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and The Society of
the Plastics Industry, 1988
Provides information for the general public on the marine debris problem, relevant legislation, and
programs and projects developed to reduce the problem.
143 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Cleaning America's Beaches: 1988 National Beach Cleanup Results
Center for Marine Conservation, 1989
Provides national, state, and local results of data on types and quantities of marine debris collected
during the 1988 National Beach Cleanup. Includes information on Alabama, Florida, Louisiana,
Mississippi, and Texas.
202 pages
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-39
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Publications and Reports
Cleaning North America's Beaches: 1989 Beach Cleanup Results
Center for Marine Conservation, 1990
Provides national, state, and local results of data on types and quantities of marine debris collected
during the 1989 Beach Cleanup in addition to data collected in Canada and Mexico. Includes
information on Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.
310 pages
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
Dealing with MARPOL Annex V - Reference Guide for Ports
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1988
Information for marine port and terminal operators on improving refuse reception facilities for
shipboard generated wastes. Includes information on the establishment of education programs, advisory
committees, defining needs of a port, and recovering costs. This guide was produced based on the
results of the Port of Newport Marine Refuse Disposal Project and written by Fran Recht.
132 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Dealing with Garbage under MARPOL Annex V: Examples of
Compliance Approaches used by the Shipping Industry
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1989
Identifies approaches and techniques being used by the shipping industry to comply with MARPOL
Annex V. Includes case studies of commercial shipping companies, cruise lines, ports, and a barge
company. Prepared by A.T. Kearney, Inc.
62 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Designation of the Gulf of Mexico as a Special Area under MARPOL
Annex V
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Gulf of Mexico Program, 1990
Provides technical information in support of designation of the Gulf of Mexico as a "Special Area"
under MARPOL Annex V. Prepared for the EPA by the Oceanic Society for submission to the
International Maritime Organization.
50 pages.
Contact: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Gulf of Mexico Program
Educating the Public on the Dangers of Marine Debris: A Report on
a Plastics Education Program
Florida Fisheries Commission, 1989
Prepared for Governor Martinex as part of a package on coastal protection measures. Developed to
provide recommendations concerning proposed rulings on fishing gear designed to address the adverse
effect of mo no filament fishing line and nets on Florida's beaches and coastal waterways and other
initiatives to help educate the public on the dangers posed by marine debris.
56 pages
Contact: Florida Department of Environmental Regulation
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-40
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Publications and Reports
Experience in Helping Cruise Lines Comply with MARPOL Annex V
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1989
Discusses marine debris education efforts for the cruise line industry and includes information on
MARPOL Annex V and beach cleanup data findings of trash originating from cruise lines. Also
included are examples of educational materials available to cruise lines. Prepared by the Center for
Marine Conservation.
12 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Florida Coastal Cleanup September 23, 1989: Foreign Debris
Center for Marine Conservation, 1989
Lists number of marine debris items originating from foreign countries collected during Florida's fall
1989 beach cleanup.
3 pages
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Florida State Office
Florida's Marine Debris Problem: A Report on the First Florida
Statewide Coastal Cleanup, September 24, 1988
Center for Marine Conservation, 1989
Final results of the September 24, 1988, Florida Coastal Cleanup with information on types and
quantities of trash collected by zone, and recommendations for solving this problem in Florida.
60 pages
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Florida State Office
Marine Debris Survey Annual Report
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Park Service, 1989
Tri-annual reports issued on studies being conducted as part of a joint federal effort to study persistent
marine debris on coastal beaches. Information is being compiled from eight national parks including
Padre Island National Seashore and Gulf Islands National Seashore.
29 pages
Contact: Padre Island National Seashore, Gulf Islands National Seashore, or National Park Service
Mississippi Coastal Cleanup: Summary Report 1989 Take Pride
Gulfwide
Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium, 1989
Summary of 1989 Mississippi beach cleanup with data on types and quantities of trash collected.
7 pages
Contact: Mississippi/Alabama Sea Grant Consortium
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-41
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Publications and Reports
Model Plastics Refuse Control and Minimization Plan
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1989
Outlines techniques being used by the shipping industry to comply with MARPOL Annex V
requirements including formats for plastics control and minimization plans and crew education and
training. Prepared by A.T. Kearney, Inc.
47 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
1988 Report of the Interagency Task Force on Persistent Marine
Debris
White House Domestic Policy Council, 1988
Report of a multi-agency federal effort to assess the problem of marine debris, identify potential
reduction measures, and develop recommendations. Includes specific information for the Gulf of
Mexico. A 41-page synopsis of this report is also available. It is entitled "Persistent Marine Debris.
Challenge and Response. The Federal Perspective."
169 pages
Contact: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Chief Scientist
1986 Texas Coastal Cleanup Report
Center for Marine Conservation, 1987
Summary of September 20, 1986, Texas Coastal Cleanup with information on types and quantities of
trash collected by zone and recommendations for solving the problem in Texas.
52 pages
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States Regional Office
Persistent Marine Debris in the North Sea, Northwest Atlantic Ocean,
Wider Caribbean Area, and the West Coast of Baja California
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean Pollution Prevention Program
Office, and Marine Mammal Commission, 1988
Includes a 35-page section on the Wider Caribbean region with a discussion on the distributions,
economic effects, and hazards to wildlife posed by marin debris. Prepared by Burr Heneman and the
Center for Marine Conservation.
150 pages
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-42
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Publications and Reports
Proceedings of the Workshop on the Fate and Impact of Marine
Debris
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1985
Papers presented at this workshop provided the first comprehensive review information regarding the
marine debhs problem. Although the majority of papers concentrated on the Pacific region, the
findings and recommendations of this workshop have broad application. Edited by R.S. Shomura and
Y.O. Yoshida. NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS. NOAA-TM-NMFS-SWFC-54.
580 pages, Order Number PB86-146941, $53 for photocopy, $8 for microfiche
Contact: National Technical Information Service
Proposal for International Maritime Organization Assistance to
Implement MARPOL 73/78 Annex V in the Wider Caribbean
International Maritime Organization, 1990
Proposal to station a marine debris expert in the Gulf of Mexico/Caribbean Sea region.
50 pages
Contact: U.S. Coast Guard
September Sweep: Louisiana's 1987 Beach Cleanup
Louisiana Geological Survey, 1987
Summary of 1987 Louisiana beach cleanup with data by zone on types and quantities of debris
collected.
30 pages
Contact: Louisiana Geological Survey
Shipping Industry Marine Debris Education Plan
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Entanglement Research Program, 1989
Comprehensive marine debris education plan for the shipping industry in addition to U.S. ports and
cruise lines. Objectives are to increase awareness of MARPOL Annex V and to encourage compliance.
Prepared by A.T. Kearney, Inc.
79 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Use of MARPOL Annex V Reception Facilities and Disposal Systems
at Selected Gulf of Mexico Ports, Private Terminals and Recreational
Boating Facilities
Texas General Land Office, 1990.
Prepared by Texas and Louisiana Sea Grants
Contact: Texas General Land Office
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-43
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Publications and Reports
Ship's Guide to Recent Navy Initiatives for Shipboard Solid and
Plastic Waste Management
U.S. Navy, Office of Chief of Naval Operations, 1988
Educational materials and sample plastic waste reduction programs prepared by the Navy for shipboard
use on the marine debris problem.
25 pages
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Survey and Evaluation of Fishing Gear Losses in Marine and Great
Lakes Fisheries of the United States
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, Marine
Entanglement Research Program, 1990
Includes calculations of lost fishing gear in Gulf of Mexico commercial fisheries and management,
research, and funding recommendations to better delineate lost gear and reduce gear loss rates.
Prepared by Natural Research Consultants, Inc.
141 pages
Contact: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service,
Marine Entanglement Research Program
Texas Coastal Cleanup
Center for Marine Conservation, 1988
Summary of the 1987 Texas Coastal Cleanup with information on types and quantities of trash collected
by zone and update on recommendations made in 1987. Additional information on data collected
during Spring 1987 and 1988 Texas beach cleanups, and 1987 beach cleanups in Louisiana,
Mississippi, and North Carolina.
105 pages
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States Regional Office
Texas Shores Magazine, volume 20, number 20
Texas Sea Grant College Program, 1987
Issue dedicated to marine debris problem in the Gulf of Mexico.
Contact: Texas Sea Grant College Program
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Deuris Action Plan B-44
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Publications and Reports
The Gulf of Mexico as a "Special Area" under MARPOL Annex V
Texas General Land Office, 1987
Prepared by the Center for Marine Conservation for the Texas General Land Office for consideration
by the U.S. delegation to the International Maritime Organization in support of designatin the Gulf of
Mexico as a "Special Area" under MARPOL Annex V.
79 pages
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, National Headquarters
Special Area Designation for the Gulf of Mexico and MARPOL
Annex V
Oceanic Society/Gulf of Mexico Program presented as Technical Information at MEPC 30.
Contact: EPA Region 6
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-45
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Scientific Data and Research Projects
Scientific Data
Entanglement In and Ingestion Of Marine Debris by Sea Turtles
Stranded Along the South Texas Coast
P. Plotkin and A.F. Amos, 1989
Contains information on instances of entanglement in or ingestion of debris by sea turtles in the Gulf of
Mexico. Presented at the Eighth Annual Workshop on Sea Turtle Conservation and Biology, 24-26
February, 1989, Fort Fisher, North Carolina. Extended abstract available from authors.
Contact: Pamela Plotkin, Texas A&M University or Anthony Amos, University of Texas
Impacts of Ocean Debris on Marine Turtles: Entanglement and
Ingestion
G.H. Balazs, 1985
Contains information on entanglement in or ingestion of debris by sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico
In: Proceedings of the Workshop on the Fate and Impact of Marine Debris, 27-29 November 1984,
Honolulu, Hawaii. NOAA Technical Memorandum NOAA-TM-NMFS-SWFC-54. pp 387-429.
Contact: NOAA's Marine Debris Information Office
Mississippi/Alabama Marine Ecosystem Study Annual Report, Year 2
S.R. Gittings, TJ. Bright, I.R. MacDonald, and W.W. Schroeder, 1990
Sponsored by the Minerals Management Service, this research involves 27 stations in the Gulf of
Mexico off the Mississippi/Alabama coast. Video surveys of hard and software bottom biological
assemblages found at depths of 53 to 110 meters noted sightings of marine debris including
monofilament fishing line, discarded longlines, beverage cans, plastic cups, and unidentified scraps of
metal.
In: Mississippi/Alabama Marine Ecosystem Study Annual Report, Year 2. J.M. Brooks and C.P.
Giammona (editors). U.S. Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service. New Orleans,
LA. OCS Study MMS 89-0095. 1990. 348 pages.
Contact: Minerals Management Service
Trash, Debris, and Human Activities: Potential Hazards at Sea and
Obstacles to Sea Turtle Nesting
A.F. Amos, 1989
Contains information on incidences of entanglement in or ingestion of debris by sea turtles in the Gulf
of Mexico.
In: Proceedings of the First International Symposium on Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle Biology,
Conservation, and Management, TAMU-W-85-006.
Contact: Anthony Amos, University of Texas
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-46
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Scientific Data and Research Projects
Research Projects
Debris on a South Texas Barrier Island, Manmade and Natural
Material on the Beach: Where It Comes From, How It Gets There,
and What Is Its Affect on Wildlife?
Anthony Amos and Texas Sea Grant, 1978-to present
Using 12 kilometers of beach on the seaward side of Padre Island, this study began in 1978 and to date
involves approximately 1,200 observations to define a relationship between the movement of marine
debris and physical oceanographic and meteorologic conditions in this region.
Contact: Anthony Amos, University of Texas
National Seashore Marine Debris Survey
National Marine Fisheries Service, and National Park Service, fall 1988 - fall 1993
In a joint effort between National Marine Fisheries Service and National Park Service, persistent
marine debris on coastal beaches is being studied at eight national parks including Padre Island National
Seashore and Gulf Islands National Seashore. In this five-year study, tri-annual reports are prepared by
each park office and submitted to the Marine Debris Coordinator in Washington, D.C.
Contact: Padre Island National Seashore, Gulf Islands National Seashore, or National Parks Service
Solid Waste Pollution on Texas Beaches: A Post-MARPOL Annex V
Study
Minerals Management Service, 1990 to present
This study is being carried out by Anthony Amos, University of Texas Marine Science Institute, to
assess the post-MARPOL conditions of a Mustang Island, TX beach over a two-year period, compare
that with the two years prior to MARPOL to see if it is "working," and refine the observation
techniques to provide a standard method for future beach-litter monitoring.
Contact: Dr. Robert Rogers, COTR, Minerals Management Service
Study of Floatables in U.S. Waters
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Initiated February 1989
Samples were taken from the Houston ship channel and Buffalo Bayou as part of this national program
designed to determine the types and amounts of floating debris in coastal areas.
Contact: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6
The Feeding Ecology of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle in the
Northwestern Gulf of Mexico
Texas A&M University and Texas Sea Grant College Program, 1990
Masters thesis work with information on impacts of marine debris on sea turtles.
Contact: Pamela Plotkin, Texas A&M University
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-47
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Scientific Data and Research Projects
Research Projects
The Relationship Between Sea Turtles and Oil Platforms
National Marine Fisheries Service and Minerals Management Service, June 1988 - June 1990
As a secondary objective of this project, aerial surveys were conducted of large pieces of floating
marine debris including plastics.
Contact: National Marine Fisheries Service, Mississippi Laboratories
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-48
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Workshops and Conferences
Controlling Offshore Sources of Pollution Session of the Regional
Symposium on Environmental Quality in the Gulf of Mexico
Center for Marine Conservation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, Minerals Management Service, The Moody Foundation of Galveston,
Texas, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1989
Presentations included:
Overview of the Marine Debris Problem. K. O'Hara, Center for Marine Conservation
Regional Efforts Combatting Marine Debris. W. Bettenberg, Minerals Management Service
MARPOL Annex V: How Will It Work? J. Whitehead, U.S. Coast Guard
Panel Discussion: MARPOL Annex V
Challenge Paper and Panel Discussion: Should the Gulf of Mexico be a Special Area? B.
Thome-Miller, Oceanic Society
Beyond Our Borders: Non U.S. Sources of Marine Debris. E. Bruna, Internat'l Services Co.
International Controls on Marine Pollution in the Gulf of Mexico
Contact: Center for Marine Conservation, Gulf Coast States Regional Office (for abstracts)
Information Developments and Solutions to Marine Debris in the Gulf
of Mexico, Session of the Eight Annual Gulf of Mexico Information
Transfer Meeting
Minerals Management Service, 1987
Marine Debris papers presented included:
Session Overview. V.C. Reggio, Minerals Management Service
Marine Debris on the Beaches of Padre Island National Seashore. L. Peart, Padre Island National
Seashore
Survey and Findings of Beach Debris on Mustang Island, Texas. A. Amos, University of Texas
Preliminary Findings for Beach Debris in Louisiana. D. Lindstedt and J. Jones, Louisiana
Geological Survey
Louisiana Coastal Recreation and Tourism Assessment Team: An Innovative University
Approach. M. Liffman, Louisiana Sea Grant College Program
NOAA's Marine Entanglement Research Program: Goals, Products, Information, and Plans.
A.R. Bunn, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The Offshore Oil and Gas Industry's Campaign to Stop Offshore Littering. W. Kewely, Offshore
Operators Committee
Education and Awareness: Keys to Solving the Marine Debris Problem. K. O'Hara, Center for
Environmental Education
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program. F.H. Morgan, Texas General Land Office
Panel Reports: 1987 Gulf of Mexico Beach Cleanup Highlights
Texas: L. Maraniss, Center for Marine Conservation
Louisiana: C. Fair, Louisiana Coastal Cleanup
Mississippi: G. Bishop, Gulf Islands National Seashore
In: Proceedings of the Eighth Annual Gulf of Mexico Information Transfer Meeting, 1-3 December
1987. U.S. Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service. New Orleans, LA. OCS
Study MMS 88-0035. 1988. pp. 41-89.
Contact: Minerals Management Service
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-49
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Workshops and Conferences
Sea and Shore: Coastal Recreation and Petroleum Development
Overview Session of the Seventh Annual Gulf of Mexico Information
Transfer Meeting
Minerals Management Service, 1986
Marine Debris papers presented included:
Sea and Shore: Coastal Recreation and Petroleum Development Overview. V.C. Reggio,
Minerals Management Service
The Shipshape Debate on Mitigating Marine Litter. R. Blumberg, U.S. Department of State
Stashing Trash Without a Splash. W. Kewley, Offshore Operators Committee
In: Proceedings of the Seventh Annual Gulf of Mexico Information Transfer Meeting, 4-6 November
1986. U.S. Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service. New Orleans, LA. OCS
Study MMS 87-0058. 1987. pp. 323-348.
Contact: Minerals Management Service
The Second International Workshop on the Fate and Impact of
Marine Debris
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1989
This workshop was conducted to review progress and identify future priorities in addressing the marine
debris problem.
In: Proceedings from this workshop are in preparation.
Contact: National Marine Fisheries Service, Honolulu Laboratory
Trash and Debris on Gulf of Mexico Shorefront Beaches
Session of the Sixth Annual Gulf of Mexico Information Transfer
Meeting
Minerals Management Service, 1985
Marine Debris papers presented included:
Trash and Debris on Gulf of Mexico Shorefront Beaches. V.C. Reggio, Minerals Management
Service
National Parks and Seashores: Drums and Hazardous Waste. M. Hancock, Padre Island
National Seashore
State and Local Beaches. J.M. Gosdin, Office of the Governor of Texas
Removal, Sampling, and Disposal of Abandoned Drums Containing Suspected Unknown
Hazardous Substances from the Beaches of Mustang Island and Padre Island, Texas. G.F.
Epler, U.S. Coast Guard
Marine User Group Panel Discussion
Petroleum Industry. J. Burgbacher, GOM Offshore Operators Committee
Shipping Industry Perspective. J. Cox, American Institute of Merchant Shipping
The Recreation & Tourism Perspective. R. Ditton, Texas Department of Recreation and
Parks A West Coast Perspective. J. Neilson, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
In: Proceedings of the Seventh Annual Gulf of Mexico Information Transfer Meeting, 22-24 October
1985. U.S. Department of the Interior, Minerals Management Service. New Orleans, LA. OCS
Study MMS 86-0073. 1986. pp. 297-314.
Contact: Minerals Management Service
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-50
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Workshops and Conferences
Workshop on the Fate and Impact of Marine Debris
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1984
This workshop provided the first comprehensive review of information regarding the marine debris
problem. Although the majority of papers presented concentrated on the Pacific region, the findings
and recommendations of this workshop have broad application.
In: Proceedings of the Workshop on the Fate and Impact of Marine Debris, 27-29 November 1984,
NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS. NOAA-TM-NMFS-SWFC-54. 1985. 580 pages. Order
Number PB86-146941, $53 for photocopy, $8 for microfiche.
Contact: National Technical Information Service
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-51
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Appendix B
Gulf Information Survey
Marine Debris Education and Information
Inventory Form
Product: check appropriate blank
Educational Materials:
Brochure
FactSheet/Flier _
Newsletter _
Poster _
Sign _
Slide Show _
Sticker/Decal _
Video _
Other (specify)
Legislation
Public Awareness/Debris
Reduction Program _
Publication/Report _
Scientific Data _
Research Project _
Workshop/Conference _
Other (specify) _
_# panels
_# pages
_times/yr.
_size
_size
_# slides
_size
# minutes
ref. no.
Jt pages
Audience directed to: check blank(s)
Commercial Fishermen
Commercial Shippers
Educators (grades/groups?)
General Public
Legislators/Policymakers
Media
Military Personnel
Passenger Cruise Line
employees/crew
passengers
Petroleum Industry Personnel
Plastics Industry Personnel
Recreational Boaters
School Children (grades?)
Scientists/Researchers
Port/Terminal Operators
Other (specify)
Title:
Sponsor:
Date:
Description:
(If applicable)
Cost: rental fee
purchase
Distribution Area (where in use?):
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan
B-52
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Appendix B Gulf Information Survey
Available from:
Organization:
Address:
Telephone:
Contact Person:
Other Comments:
Return to:
Ms. Angela Farias
Texas General Land Office
1700 N. Congress, Room 837
Austin, Texas 78711-1495
• US GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFF1CI 1 9 9 3 -7 1 5 -0 0 3/ B 7 o 3 6
Gulf of Mexico Program Marine Debris Action Plan B-53
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