This document is the result of a productive and collaborative effort between the MDP and regional partners, including representatives from governments, non-profits, academia, and the private sector.

The Report documents the many actions taken over the five years of the Action Plan to reduce the impacts of marine debris in the Great Lakes. Through collaborative efforts, the Great Lakes marine debris community made great strides to address marine debris, completing 34 actions and continuing work on 17 additional actions. In total, 180,062 people were educated on the topic during 711 events and approximately 306,665 pounds of debris were removed by volunteers.

Created as a voluntary, collaborative effort, the Action Plan engaged more than 30 organizations from all eight U.S. states (IL, IN, MI, MN, NY, OH, PA, WI) and Ontario, with sector-specific participation varying by location.

The Action Plan aimed to help ensure that the Great Lakes, its coasts, people, and wildlife are free from the impacts of marine debris. Great Lakes stakeholders are currently drafting a 2020-2025 Great Lakes Marine Debris Action Plan to continue to address marine debris in the Great Lakes.

For additional information, please contact Sarah.Lowe@noaa.gov.

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