NOAA Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris Program Continues

Maps of offshore marine debris across Louisiana are available for downloading and printing at http://gulfofmexico.marinedebris.noaa.gov/, as well as information on inshore debris.

The maps provide data to boaters and fishermen who need to avoid these items and to the agencies involved in removal activities. For offshore areas, the Web site posts results from ongoing sonar surveys of the state’s water bottoms, including locations where potential marine debris items have been found. For inshore areas, the site displays maps of waterways identified as having debris issues, along with photos of debris, sunken vessels, and the occasional alligator.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Marine Debris Program and Office of Response and Restoration, along with the Louisiana Sea Grant College Program at Louisiana State University, are leading this public outreach effort to aid in hurricane recovery. NOAA is working collaboratively with local, state and federal stakeholders to share this information.