Engaging on Marine Debris at Alaska Forum on the Environment
FEB. 27 — From Feb. 6-10, the NOAA Marine Debris Program, within the Office of Response and Restoration, attended and facilitated marine debris presentation and listening sessions at the Alaska Forum on the Environment.
This event, which celebrated its 25th anniversary this year, is the largest statewide environmental conference. It draws people from across the entire state to Anchorage to discuss, learn, and share about the environmental issues, efforts, and opportunities in their community.
The Marine Debris Program team planned and facilitated three debris presentation sessions on Feb. 7, with presentations from members across the Alaska marine debris community discussing their work and observations on removal, prevention, disposal, and research projects. The talks were attended by over 200 people in total.
On Feb. 9, the team hosted an Alaska Action Plan listening session to hear thoughts, insights, and perspectives on what should be part of the Alaska Marine Debris Action Plan that is currently in process. This was the second listening session, following the first held at the Alaska Marine Science Symposium. Through the session, the team heard and captured input from more than 70 attendees on current actions, gaps or challenges, and future priorities for debris work in the state.