THE WINSTON CHURCHILL MEMORIAL TRUST OF AUSTRALIA

Transcription

1 THE WINSTON CHURCHILL MEMORIAL TRUST OF AUSTRALIA Report by- GARY LUCHI-2007 Churchill Fellow To investigate the most effective and efficient ways to remove and recycle marine debris, principally Ghostnets from the environment. I understand that the Churchill Trust may publish this report, either in hard copy or on the internet or both and consent to such publication. I indemnify the Churchill Trust against loss, costs or damage it may suffer arising out of any claim or proceedings made against the Trust in respect of or arising out of the publication of any Report submitted to the Trust and which the Trust places on a website for access over the internet. I also warrant that my finals report is original and does not infringe the copyright of any person, or contain anything which is, or the incorporation of which into the Final Report is, actionable for defamation, a breach of any privacy law or obligation, breach of confidence, contempt of court, passing-off or contravention of any private right or of any law. Signed Gary Luchi Dated. 10/01/2008 1

2 Contents Introduction Executive Summary Acknowledgements The Programme Anchorage Itinerary... 8 Oahu-Hawaiian Itinerary... 9 Maui-Hawai I Itinerary Big Island-Hawai I Itinerary Seattle Itinerary Washington DC/Silver Springs Itinerary Gulf of Mexico Itinerary Main Body The United States National Oceans and Atmospheric Administrations Marine Debris Programme Outreach Programmes Pre-survey and planning Diving Operations-removal of identified debris Identifying the source of abandoned Ghost Nets Alaska Volunteer Groups and NGO s The Marine Conservation Alliance Foundation (MCAF) The Gulf of Alaska Keepers Hawaiian Islands Marine Debris Recycling Project Schnitzer Steel Honolulu Derelict Net Recycling Programme The Ocean Conservancy and Clean up the World Day Airborne Technologies The Hawai i an Wildlife Fund Kaho olawe Marine Debris Removal Seattle Washington DC

3 New Orleans Stennis Space Centre CONCLUSIONS Conclusion Recommendations Bibliography

4 Introduction. Ghost Nets are abandoned fishing nets that continue to roam the world s oceans. Aided by the wind and the oceans currents, they ignore sovereign boundaries and travel impressive distances doing what they do best, entangling and killing marine life. With no master to control them, these ghost nets, continue to catch marine life indiscriminately, with devastating results. No more are these nets trawled behind boats, or set and removed when they have done their job. They now hunt on their own. Found floating in every ocean of the world, from the Polar Regions to the equator, Ghost nets are Silent Lethal Killers that haunt every ocean looking for a kill. Research indicates that more than one million birds and 100,000 marine mammals die each year due to ingestion of, and entanglement in marine debris. It has also been reported that entanglement or ingestion of marine debris affects at least 267 different species of animals. Seabirds, turtles, seals, sea lions, whales and fish are all affected. Derelict fishing gear is a long-lasting form of marine debris. Modern nets and fishing line, now made of synthetic materials, can take decades and in some cases hundreds of years, to decompose when in water.ghost Nets and marine debris in general present a problem of global significance. All around the world, the phenomena of Marine Debris has become an immerging issue. In response to these concerns remedial action has been instigated in many countries. In Australia, the impacts on marine wildlife, the hazards to navigation and the possible economic consequences are of a major concern. In response to this local threat, a community driven ghost net removal and point source identification project was initiated. Known as the Carpentaria Ghost Net Programme, this Project is in its infancy and utilizes a coalition of 18 mentored Indigenous Communities who have Stewardship for the coastline and islands across the top of Australia and the Torres Strait. Saltwater People Working Together have made a significant contribution to the removal and identification of marine debris and the trends relating to the probable point source of its origin that threaten Australia waters today. It is hoped that the lessons learned from this Churchill Fellowship Study Tour of America will assist the Australian Marine Debris Programme and Australian Authorities in recognising additional efficiencies and effectiveness that can be applied in the Australian context. 4

5 Executive Summary. Churchill Fellow Gary Luchi Bachelor of Applied Science, Associate Diploma in Park Management. Phone Overseas Study Project: The most effective and efficient way to remove and recycle marine debris, principally Ghost Nets from the environment Project Objective. To develop international marine debris networks and to gain knowledge and experience from some of the world leaders in marine debris removal, analysis and recycling that can, be incorporated in any Australian National Marine Debris Abatement Plan guide the field operation effort of Australian marine debris clean up activities maximise the effectiveness and efficiency of activities aimed at combating marine debris assist in recycling initiatives aimed at marine debris be used to raise public awareness of the marine debris phenomenon Project Highlights. Participated in the International Ocean Conservancies World Clean Up Day activities in Hawaii. Site inspection of Hawaiian Waste to Power Plant where Ghost Nets and other trash are burned to generate electricity. Discussions with NOAA s Marine Debris Programme Director regarding possible joint funding or complimentary projects to develop an International Marine Debris Identification Manual Discussions with Director of NOAA s Stennis Space Centre Facility which resulted in an offer for that facility to produce ocean current models relating to those currents that potentially transport marine debris to Australian waters. 5

6 Major lessons and and Conclusions. Australia needs a National and centrally coordinated approach to the problem of Marine Debris Marine debris clean up activities are most effective and efficient when a multi agency approach is taken that includes Government and non government resources. Education, outreach and interpretation are critically important tools in raising awareness of the problems associated with marine debris It is more efficient and effective to attack the source of the problem than it is to address the effects. It is more efficient and effective to identify, locate and remove ghost nets and marine debris from the ocean before it washes up or before the debris has contributed to marine animal mortality, habitat destruction or become a navigational hazard. Collected marine debris and ghost nets needs to be recycled Strategically located collection points need to be set up to facilitate the collection of marine debris for recycling Monitoring and research into ghost net and marine debris source points and accumulation rates need to be instigated using existing protocols to allow data set exchange and collaboration Australia needs to become involved in the annual yearly International Marine Debris Clean Up days. An International Marine Debris Identification guide needs to be developed. An Australian National Oceans Office would be more effective in the management of issues relating to Australian oceanic waters. 6

7 Acknowledgements. My Study Tour would not have been possible without the support of the following people and organizations, The Winston Churchill Fellowship Trust for providing the opportunity to go forth and seek information concerning the Marine Debris Phenomena and how it is being addressed from an International perspective The Northern Gulf Resource Management Group, a not-for- profit, Non Government Organization, for their sponsorship and in particular the Regional Manager Noeline Gross who supported my application and graciously granted me study leave to pursue my travels My Project referee and Coordinator of the Carpentaria Ghost net programme, Riki Gunn who supported me in my initial application. My personal referee and Churchill Fellow, Mr Mike Short who gave me guidance in the preparation of my application and the processes involved. The United States National Oceans and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for graciously hosting me and assigning me a minder in each location. To NOAA staff who arranged meetings and presentations. In particular, Anchorage, Alaska Mr. John Whitney, Mike Williams and Bob King. Gulf of Alaska Keepers (GO AK) in particular Chris Pallister, for arranging and hosting me on a field trip and allowing me to assist with a clean up on Prince William Sound. Seattle Mr Nir Barnea-who went above the call of duty rescued me from the drudgery of motels and taxis and brought me into his home. Mr Liam Antrim, Mr Jim Coe-thanks for the book!, Jeff June Jim Woods-Makah Nation, Dennis Lucia-Nisqually Nation Hawaii. Ms Carey Morishige- the best tour manager anyone could possibly ask for. Kris McElwee, Chris Woolaway, Howard Wiig, Charlie Lindsay, Bill Gilmartin Washington. Mr Neal Parry, Steve Giodas, Holly Bamford, Megan Forbes, Sarah Morrison New Orleans. Mr Neal Parry who accompanied me and not only organized my itinerary and meetings also introduced me to the House of Blues and the New Orleans Vintage Guitar shop! Marty Bourgeois, Harry Blanchet, James McKnight, Albert Rost Parsons, Russel Beard. 7

8 The Programme. Anchorage Itinerary DAY DATE LOCATION MEETING WITH OUTCOMES Tues 04/09/07 Arrive Anchorage Airport Cab to B & B by the Park Secure accommodation Wed 05/09/07 Anchorage Mike Williams John Whitney Overview of Alaskan situation Thurs 06/0907 Anchorage-Whittier & Rtn GO AK-Chris Pallister, Bob King, John Whitney Participate in Clean Up Prince William Sound Fri 07/09/07 Anchorage- Meeting federal Building Bob King, Mike Williams, Erica, john Whitney Australian Ghost Net Presentation Remote area challenged and Indigenous partnerships. Sat 08/09/07 Anchorage Sun 09/09/07 Anchorage to Seward Transit Mon 10/09/07 Seward Alaskan Wildlife Centre Animal entanglements, working in remote locations Tues 11/09/07 Seward Kenai Fords National Park Ranger Service Commercial tour operators Inspect Past Clean up sites. Speak to Rangers and tour operators re: marine debris problems Wed 12/09/07 Seward Alaskan Wildlife Centre Ghost Net Presentation Rehab centre tour, Discuss Outreach programmes Seward to Anchorage Late train transport Thur 13/09/07 Anchorage to Seattle Transit Arrive Honolulu 8

9 Oahu-Hawaiian Itinerary DAY DATE LOCATION MEETING WITH OUTCOMES Fri 14/09/07 Hawaii Kai Sanctuary office 6600 Kalanianaole Highway 3rd Floor Honolulu, HI NOAA Marine Debris Program - Carey Morishige, Outreach Coordinator - Kris McElwee, Pacific Islands Programme Coordinator - Dr. Holly Bamford, Program Director (via NOAA Marine Debris Programme - mandates, priorities, activities - Introductions - Hawaiian Marine Debris Overview Hawaii Kai Sanctuary office 6600 Kalanianaole Highway 3rd Floor Honolulu, HI conference call) GhostNet Project - Tim Veenstra - Kevin Wong Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument - Andy Collins - Russell Reardon Sat 15/09/07 Waikiki Yacht Club NOAA Ocean Conservancy Mon 17/09/ B Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI Bishop Street, 15th and 22nd floors Honolulu, HI Local Clean Up Volunteer Groups NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Centre, Coral Reef Ecosystem Division (PIFSC CRED) - Seema Balwani, Dr. Rusty Brainard and staff '* Presentation at Blue Bag Lunch series NOAA Pacific Services Center North Pacific Ocean GhostNet Project Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine National Monument - current and historic marine debris initiatives - new Monument status Participate in the 3rd annual NOAA Cleanup Day and Get the Drift and Bag It! (part of the Ocean Conservancy s International Coastal Cleanup) Examination of efforts regarding marine debris in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) Main Hawaiian Islands project - aerial surveys and debris removal Ghost Net Program Alien species project in the NWHI Unmanned aerial vehicles study Carpentaria Ghost Net project Overview Forum of discussion regarding Australian challenges 9

10 DAY DATE LOCATION MEETING WITH OUTCOMES Tues 18/09/07 Pacific Ocean Producers, Pier N Nimitz Hwy. Honolulu HI Wed 19/09/07 Schnitzer - Campbell Industrial Park Hanua Street Kapolei, HI HPower - Campbell Industrial Park Hanua Street Thurs 20/09/07 Prince Kuhio Federal Building 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI Honolulu Derelict Net Recycling Program Partners include: - Neil Kanemoto, POP - Eric Kingma, WESPAC - Sean Martin, HLA - Nelson, UFA - Scott Barrows, UFA - Lindsay Yates, NOAA (cannot make it) Chris Woolaway Chris Woolaway and Assoc., LLC Schnitzer Steel Hawaii Corporation H-Power / Covanta Energy 100 Hanauma Bay Rd. Honolulu, HI Fri 21/09/07 WAIKIKI LIVING REEF AWARDS NWHI Multi-agency Marine Debris Group - Howard Wiig - DBEDT - Chris Woolaway - Chris Woolaway and Assoc. - Other multi-agency partners *Presentation to partners *Presentation at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Involvement of commercial fishers-how to get them involved and the best method. How can they help remove or identify marine debris. Inspect dockside/pier collection points. Project results so far Coordinator of International Coastal Cleanup in Hawaii; Coordinated the National Marine Debris Monitoring Program here in Hawaii; Involved in marine debris in Hawaii for 20+ years. How is the marine debris processed for recycling? How is the marine debris concerted to power? Hawaii's NWHI Marine Debris Group - projects, partnerships, etc. Carpentaria Ghost Net project Overview Forum of discussion regarding Australian challenges Carpentaria Ghost Net project Overview Forum of discussion regarding Australian challenges 10

11 Maui-Hawai I Itinerary DAY DATE LOCATION MEETING WITH OUTCOMES Sun 23/09/07 Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Headquarters Office 726 S. Kihei Road Kihei, HI Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary - Large whale disentanglement - David Matilla - Ed Lyman Mon 24/09/ Kolu St. #201 Wailuku, HI /09/07 Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Headquarters Office 726 S. Kihei Road Kihei, HI Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission/ NOAA/ Kanapou Beach Cleanup *Presentation - Charlie Lindsey - Cheryl King - Allan Ligon - Dean Tokishi *Public Presentation Advertised presentation open to the general public and local community groups. Tues 25/09/07 Kahoolawe Island Assist with Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission planning trip for Kanapou Beach Cleanup. Vessel patrol to Kahoolawe Island. Wed 26/09/07 Transit to Big Island Large whale disentanglement programme. Investigate processes and tools used. Discuss incidence of whale entaglements Learn about logistically difficult Kanapou cleanup effort Give Ghost Net Presentation Carpentaria Ghost Net project Overview Forum of discussion regarding Australian challenges. Awareness of Australian Situation. Logistics and planning in a remote setting and inaccessible to vehicle terrain. 11

12 Big Island-Hawai I Itinerary DAY DATE LOCATION MEETING WITH OUTCOMES Wed 26/09/ Kamehameha Ave. * Presentation at Discovery Center Carpentaria Ghost Net project Overview Forum of discussion regarding Australian challenges Hilo, HI Thur 27/09/07 Division of Aquatic Resources Involvement of Fisheries dept in Clean ups and - John Kahiapo Fri 28/09/07 Waiohinu Hawaii Wildlife Fund - South Point Cleanup public awareness campaigns Learn about Waihonu-Ka Lae coast marine debris removal efforts - logistical difficulty, large scale cleanup, working with communities Seattle Itinerary DAY DATE LOCATION MEETING WITH OUTCOMES Tues 02/10/07 Arrive Seattle Airport Meet NOAA representative Nir Barnea.Tour of Golden Garden wetland; Locks and salmon ladder; InspectFishermen terminal Secure accommodation Olympia Coast, Pugot Sound project description Make NOAA contacts Wed 03/10/07 Seattle to Port Angeles Thurs 04/10/07 Port Angeles to Seattle Fri 05/10/07 Seattle Olympia coast - Seattle 7:00 AM With Nir to Betsea in Everett; Boarded Betsea 8:00AM, off to remove net SW of Possession Pt on Whidbey Island. Net not found, back to dock at 3:00 PM, travel to Port Angeles via Edmonds Ferry. 8:00 AM: Meeting with Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, presentation to Sanctuary; Visit to Sanctuary visitor centre; Trip with Liam to Makah Bay. Meeting with Jim Woods, tour of Makah marina; Visit Makah museum; walk at Cape Flattery, view of Tatoosh Island; drive to Seattle via Edmonds ferry Meeting with Jim Coe; Presentation to Seattle ORR; Drive to Nisqually reservation near Olympia, Meeting with Denis Lucia and Diver team; drive back to Seattle, 12 Participate in the clean up MD retrieval on vessel. Observe the use of dive teams and pre surveyed mapping of derelict gear using side scan sonar. Meet NOAA staff and promote awareness of the Australian situation. Inspect Outreach centre asnd marine debris programmes. Visit Native American community and discuss indigenous involvement. Inspect coastline clean up locations and discuss limitations and remedial works Promote awareness of the Australian situation. Meet leader in Marine Debris issues and book author.meet Native American Community and learn about their dive team s efforts

13 Washington DC/Silver Springs Itinerary DAY DATE LOCATION MEETING WITH OUTCOMES October 9, 2007 NOAA Headquarters- Silver Meeting with Dr. Holly Bamford, Director of NOAA Marine Debris Program (TBD) Meeting with NOAA International and General Council Offices (11 th Fl Rm) Create awareness of Australian Situation. Spring, MD Setup at NOAA Library Establish network and make Carpentaria Presentation to NOAA at Brownbag Seminar in NOAA Library project contacts. Meeting with Rod Ehler to discuss Socioeconomics of marine debris (11 th Understand the socialeconomic cost of marine floor reading room) debris-discuss methods to Meeting with Office of Response & Restoration head staff (front office) measure this impact. October 10,2007 Field Visit with NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office - Annapolis, MD Smithsonian Environmental Research Centre Depart Silver Spring Arrive NCBO in Annapolis meet Steve Giordano Gary Luchi presentation to NCBO staff Depart NCBO Arrive Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) Overview of Chesapeake Ghost Pot Project 2005 present Board research vessel at SERC Return to SERC Depart for Silver Spring Demonstration of Side Scan Sonar survey and data collection Demonstration of ghost pot retrieval methodology Demonstration of ghost pot monitoring methodology Awareness of Australian situation October 11, 2007 Anacostia River with Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) Bladensburg MD Depart Silver Spring Arrive Bladensburg, MD, meet AWS staff Presentation by AWS. Presentation and discussion on Carpentaria Ghost net programme Program Field Trip Anacostia Watershed Group Awareness of Australian Situation Community group participation. Catchment managementurban point source. 13

14 Gulf of Mexico Itinerary DAY DATE LOCATION MEETING WITH OUTCOMES October Louisiana Louisiana Sea Grant. Create awareness of Australian Situation. 16,2007 Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries Establish network and make project contacts. Marty Bourgeois Harry Blanchet Inspect university wet lab facilities for monitoring water and substrate quality after Katrina flooding events October 17,2007 Mississippi- Gulf of México shore line United States Coast Guard EMS James McKnight Overview of Katrina Response Demonstration of marine debris removal Inspection of contractor operations Tour of impacted coastline and adjacent areas Awareness of Australian situation October 18,2007 Mississippi Mississippi / Alabama Sea Grant Consortium Melissa Schneider Stennis Space Center Albert Rost Parsons Russell Russ Beard Awareness of Australian Situation Water quality and outreach programmes Assistance with oceanic current mapping and marine debris prediction models. 14

15 Clean up Alaska-with Gulf of Alaska Keepers (GoAK) NOAA 200 year Anniversary-Alaska World Clean up day-waikiki, island of Oahu Hawai i Derelict fishing gear retrieval project dice team -Seattle NOAA derelict fishing gear research team- Washington DC/Anacostia aboard research 15 Stennis Space base-noaa scientific team- Mississippi/New Orleans

16 Main Body. There is some evidence that the occurrence of harmful Marine Debris in the world s oceans and upon its coastlines has increased proportionally over the years relative to the development of plastic products and mankind s use of such products as a substitute to many of the biodegradable materials used by our forefathers. Like most places in the world, including Australia, marine debris was simply ignored until an increased awareness of the detrimental effects on wildlife was highlighted by wildlife scientists, researchers, environmental groups and traditional owners groups. Much has been written over the years about the increase, the accumulation hotspots and the effects of marine debris. We know it is a problem. What we now need is remedial action at a National and International level. The most well known example of marine debris can be found halfway between Hawaii and San Francisco. Known as the Eastern Garbage Patch the convergence of ocean currents turns this area into a collection point for marine debris. With estimates suggesting the Patch to be almost twice the size of the US State of Texas and with almost 90% being accumulated plastic, this is a serious problem. This plastic when finally breaking down will also release Carbon Dioxide back into the atmosphere. In the U.S Programme, the main source of marine debris has been categorized into four major groups. These groups are: 1. Tourism related litter at the coast 2. Sewage-related debris: these waste waters car carry with them garbage such as street litter, condoms and syringes 3. Fishing related debris 4. Wastes from ships and boats The basis of my Churchill Study and therefore the substance of this report relates to the third group, fishing related debris specifically ghost nets and relating to two main activities, o Removal o Recycling The report is not intended to be a critique of the American or Australian situation but to solely report on my experiences, provide an overview of what I found to be most relevant and to identify what actions could be adopted(if any) in Australia that would assist our assault on the marine debris problem. 16

17 The United States National Oceans and Atmospheric Administrations Marine Debris Programme. There is no doubt that the signing into law in December 2007, of legislation aimed specifically to address the Marine Debris problem has had a profound influence on the resources made available and the Marine Debris Programs underway ion the United States. The Marine Debris Research, Prevention and Reduction Act, has not only guaranteed but also by my observations, resulted in a positive, productive and well coordinated Marine Debris programme throughout the United States. The Bill introduced by Hawaii s Senator Dan Inouye, guarantees funding for States & Organizations to fight marine debris at the source and on the beaches. Most importantly this recognition also identifies that marine debris as damaging to marine life and human health. Through this Act, the National Oceans Atmospheric Administration Office (NOAA) was given the authority, utilizing the Office of Response and Restoration, to establish a National Marine Debris Programme that would, o Identify, o access, o reduce and o prevent marine debris and its effects on the marine environment and navigational safety. The Act requires NOAA to take a multi agency approach and work cooperatively with Federal Agencies and the U.S Coastguard. The US Coastguard in turn, are required by this Act to, o Improve the implementation of MARPOL Annex V (disposal of plastics & other garbage) from Vessels o Ensure U.S Ports and terminals maintain and monitor the adequacy of receptacles for disposal of plastics and other garbage o Implement a voluntary reporting program (targeting recreational and commercial boaters) o prepare a report evaluating the effectiveness of international and national measures to prevent and reduce marine debris and its impacts. The Act also ensured that an Interagency Marine Debris Coordinating Committee (IMDCC) was re-established. The IMDCC s is chaired by NOAA & the EPA and consists of 11 Federal Agencies. The main function is; 17

18 o to develop and recommend a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approach to reduce the sources and impacts of marine debris to the nations marine environment, natural resources, public safety and economy. o to provide a biannual report identifying the source of marine debris, the impacts, costs and recommendations o to provide a report every alternate biannual year on the status of the NOAA and Coast Guard programs The Act provided NOAA for the period 2006 to 2010, with a $15 million dollar annual authorization to implement the NOAA Marine Debris Programme and to engage local communities, NGO s, Universities and Native Governments in a Marine Debris Strategy. In addition there are a number of other mandates that direct NOAA to address marine debris. These include, but are not limited to: 1. Coral Reef Conservation Act States that NOAA must "provide assistance to States in removing abandoned fishing gear, marine debris, and abandoned vessels from coral reefs to conserve living marine resources" 2. Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act 1972 Regulates ocean dumping and monitoring and takes into account the aesthetic properties of the National Marine Sanctuaries in regards to marine debris. 3. Marine Plastic Pollution Research Control Act Deals with outreach and education and pollution from ships The NOAA Marine Debris Programme Mission statement is National Sea Grant Law Centre To support a national and international effort focused on preventing, identifying, and reducing the occurrence of marine debris and to protect and conserve our nation s natural resources, oceans, and coastal waterways from the impacts of marine debris. NOAA website 2007 The programme aims to, o Educate the public about marine debris o Target problem areas o Encourage innovative solutions to marine debris issues 18

19 Housed within NOAA s Office of Response and Restoration, the Marine Debris Programme is responsible for the, o Regional coordination of projects o Project support o Grant Opportunities o Developing and maintaining partnerships The Programme has 6 main focus areas. 1. Derelict fishing gear 2. Data collection and research 3. Prevention of derelict vessels 4. Coordination 5. Outreach, education and protocols 6. On the ground effects. The National Marine Debris Programme provides two avenues of funding opportunities. It is through these funding opportunities that the threat of marine debris is being addressed through a network of coordinated projects. These funding opportunities are categorized as, 1) Internal To enable NOAA to advance its capacity to educate people about marine debris, reduce the amount and prevent the introduction of marine debris to the environment. 2) External For non-noaa entities or external partners who conduct projects that support the objectives of NOAA s Marine Debris Programme. A major benefit of the way the programme functions appears to be that the funding opportunities encourage and allows for a raft of different Marine Debris Projects to be designed and undertaken by an equally diverse group of entities all working towards a common goal. The diversity of projects, including researching environmental and socioeconomical effects, recycling, removal, mapping, educational and removal ensures that all aspects of marine debris effects and mitigating works are actioned and coordinated in a National Response. 19

20 Outreach Programmes. The National Marine Debris Programme is supported by a highly effective and efficient Outreach Programme with a well defined mission. NOAA suggest that the mission of this Unit can be defined as to, assist in the coordination of marine debris projects, build and maintain partnerships, conduct outreach and education, and to represent the programme in various collaborative efforts and groups both inside and outside NOAA NOAA Fact sheet Feb 2007 Awareness and education programs were a major theme throughout all the locations that I visited. Public awareness and education is seen as a critically important tool in combating marine debris and the problem is well publicized through all sectors of the community. Most recently, First Lady Laura Bush has publically supported the US Marine Debris effort after visiting and seeing first hand the effects on the Mid West Hawaiian Islands. In her announcement, (amongst other things) she has highlighted the need and benefits of an outreach programme when she said, One of the most important parts will be to make sure people are educated about marine debris and what they can do about it," Discovery Centre s open to the public, use static and interactive displays to publicize local environment issues and to highlight topical issues such as Marine Debris. Usually staffed by volunteers or NOAA personnel, these centres can be found throughout the US and perform a valuable function in raising public awareness. Discovery centres were visited and I was able to present to a public opportunity at all these facilities. Marine debris awareness displays were present at all these facilities. The launching of a new web page on NOAA s Marine Debris Website called Marine Debris 101 provides an Internet-based educational campaign that aims to increase the awareness and prevention of marine debris. Once again with Federal Government support the program in the U.S is being afforded the resources required to attain valuable outcomes in public awareness and marine debris prevention through change of 20

21 practice information. Recent announcements by the US Federal Government through Mrs. Laura Bush, (who has become the patron for the marine debris movement) have included, The United States will work with international partners and organizations to prevent fishing gear from becoming lost in marine habitats. US initiatives will include the notion that it is more cost effective to keep the debris out of the water in the first place A network of Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centres (Discovery and Education) that includes aquariums, museums, and research facilities, will form part of the awareness campaign Downloadable resources available from this website include, fact sheets, posters, placards, brochures, guide books from partner agencies, activity books, photo database for use by the general public. T a section designed especially for educators with a marine debris awareness and prevention curriculum for students K-12. There is a major lesson to be learned here for the Australian situation. Public awareness and education plays a major role in the US programme. It is being used to encourage changed practices, invite public participation, and highlight the impacts. This in turn has resulted in funding and resources being made available to mitigate marine debris effects and some changed practices. In Australia, targeted public awareness and education is an auxiliary function that gets performed periodically if at all due to the lack of specific resources. The U.S Programme acknowledges the fact that changed practices, i.e. prevent the debris from entering the water in the first place, is the point of the whole exercise and the most cost effective and efficient way to deal with the marine debris problem in the long term. This ideal is best summed up by Conrad Lautenbacher, Under Secretary of Commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator, when he said, The most effective way to clean up marine debris is to keep it out of the water in the first place. By educating the public on and around the water, we keep dangerous debris in its place and out of the water. 21

22 Pre-survey and planning. In most circumstances a pre clean up survey is undertaken prior to any marine debris clean up operation. This can take the form of a visual assessment of the coastline by vessel, foot or aircraft or in relation to submerged derelict fishing gear or other marine debris (such as debris left in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf of Mexico or discarded crab traps) by the use of vessels employing side scanning sonar. Submerged marine debris identified by sonar is mapped and plotted using computer software programmes and when this is linked to vessel global positioning systems (GPS), guides the vessel, and removal team, to the offending debris for remedial action. Marine debris reconnaissance assists with the development of the clean up action plans and the identification of the resources required. For example, in remote locations, this planning can include identifying the need for the use of helicopters or the assistance from another entity, (such as U.S Coast Guard) to aid in the actual removal of the debris from collection points set up by clean up crews. This approach also allows for the correct allocation of resources relating to the task at hand including the amount of on ground personnel required, to ensure the clean up and removal is performed efficiently and effectively. Pre identified derelict fishing gear is plotted on a navigation programme which guides the clean up crew at a later date. Side scanning sonar unit used by NOAA Diving Operations-removal of identified debris. Diving activities are carried out in a number of locations throughout the National Marine Debris Programme to remove pre reported, identified or surveyed ghost nets, derelict fishing gear and other marine debris. 22

23 Depending on the project entity, dive removal activities are carried out by NOAA personnel, non Government, community group organisations or Native American Tribal groups. Ghost nets entangled on reef structures are cut away by divers as apposed to being forcibly removed to minimise damage to the existing benthic substrate, especially coral environments. A minimum of 2 divers are involved in removal as a safety measure with the entanglement of divers being a genuine job hazard. The use of surface supplied air (Hookah) and SCUBA (self contained underwater breathing apparatus) are used depending on the area of operation and the diver s endorsements and training. Diver using Hookah gear. Air bags are sometimes used to lift submerged gear to the surface Identifying the source of abandoned Ghost Nets. The identification of the source of marine debris has to be an integral and critical part of any marine debris programme. Stopping the problem at the source is the aim but before we can do that we need to know who our target audience is. In Australia a Net Kit has been developed that uses a pictorial guide and specific measurable parameters like, mesh size, net colour, twine size and number of strands to identify the country of origin of the net. The Guide is currently required to be updated if funds can be accessed to accomplish this. A Ghost Net Identification guide is in use in the NOAA Marine Debris Programme based on the same principles contained in the Australian Net Kit with a few minor modifications being the addition of net twist direction and net type as an identifier. From within the staggering amounts of ghost nets removed from the North West Hawaiian Islands (

24 samples from 1998 to 2004) 250 were identified as being unique. A sample (40cm X 40 cm) of each unique net that has been analysed has been archived for every year clean up operations has been initiated. The 250 unique net identifiers have been photographed and entered into a Database. To initially identify the 250 unique nets a cooperative made up of fishermen, net manufacturers, fishing vessel owners and fishing net specialists from NOAA was assembled who identified the target fisheries, net manufacturer and the material each net was constructed from. In addition a level of certainty index was used, based on 1 being low and 5 being of high certainty for the parameters relating to target fishery and country of manufacture origin. In some instances and due to the sheer volume of nets recovered at a time in the North West Hawaiian Islands, a representative sample (25%) is identified using a systematic sampling scheme to reduce any sampling bias. In my presentations throughout the study tour I spoke of the need to identify the source of the marine debris through proactive identification and the development of an International Fishing Gear Identification Manual. Proactive identification would consist of, 1. Identifying the major fishing industries of the world today. 2. Identifying the known recognised fishing grounds for those fisheries 3. Photographing and cataloguing samples of the fishing gear in use today by that fishery 4. Producing maps of the worlds ocean currents 5. Overlaying the known fishing grounds onto the ocean current maps 6. Identifying potential transport corridors for that fishing gear based on prevailing currents and winds. This suggestion was met with an enthusiastic response at all seminars I presented and by all individuals and groups I discussed identification of fishing gear with. The possible offer of joint funding or a sister project being initiated throughout the world was also discussed while in Washington at NOAA s Head Office. Through funding opportunities made available by the NOAA Marine Debris Programme, a range of marine debris mitigation and awareness activities are being undertaken in a coordinated effort to combat the threat and impacts of marine debris. It was a well coordinated and effective programme that used the combined resources and knowledge of the whole community, not just one sector. 24

25 My Churchill Fellowship allowed me to observe and investigate a subset of these funded programmes. This report does not describe or outline every single location visited or person spoken to due to the fact that there was some duplicity of operational procedure and actions in many locations and situations visited. What it does attempt to do is to summaries my experiences relating to the most applicable projects I encountered and highlight any unique situations that existed in Alaska, Seattle/Olympia Coast, Washington and New Orleans. It is not a report on, nor does it suggest that these are the only Marine Debris Projects in action in the United States today as there is a multitude more that was not the subject of my study tour. What it does illustrate is that the marine debris problem is being tackled by a multi agency/multi disciplinary approach utilizing annual Federal Government support which includes coordination, funding and physical resources. Alaska There were many similarities between the Alaskan and Australian situations. The coastline is remote and rugged and includes scattered and remote offshore islands. Access and transportation infrastructure is severely limited and there are small indigenous communities scattered throughout some of the outlying locations. In addition the area supports an extensive seasonal fishing effort that includes commercial, recreational and subsistence activities and the area supports extensive wildlife communities which have been significantly impacted upon by marine debris. Seasonal access Funding released under the NOAA Marine Debris Programme has allowed an Alaskan Project to be developed with 4 main objectives. They are listed as; 1) Access, survey, collect and load marine debris from selected remote beaches along the Alaskan coast, and transport the debris to appropriate disposal sites 2) Load and transport to appropriate disposal sites, marine debris collected by various local communities and volunteer organizations and stockpiled at various locations along the Alaskan Coast 25

26 3) Demolish and remove an abandoned 80 ft vessel beached in prime fur seal rookery habitat and other derelict vessels 4) Provide significant logistical and operational training opportunities that are unique and challenging to military units. Similar to Australia, a series of organized clean up operations take place along much of Alaska s coastline. In many instances the removal of marine debris is logistically challenging and the recycling opportunities for the collected debris become limited by the location and its extremes. Distance from established recycling centres and the cost to deliver the marine debris to these centres being the most prevailing The Project encourages a multi-agency, multi-disciplinary approach where separate and discreet marine debris sub-projects are carried out in the Pribilof Islands, Prince William Sound, Unalska (Dutch harbor), Homer, Kodiak, Cordova and Ketchikan. Depending on the location marine debris programs are carried out by NOAA personnel, Non Government Organizations, Traditional Owners, Volunteers or Environmental groups. In some instances it has been necessary for clean up crews to bag up or stockpile debris for removal at a later date. In these circumstances the use of heavy lift helicopters and cargo nets to remove stockpiled marine debris has been highly effective. The U.S Coastguard also assists in such instances. Another option put forward as a solution, was to design a training mission involving military units based on removing stockpiled marine debris previously processed by field crews. These initiatives for dealing with remote locations have strong applicability to the Australian situation. Like Australia, the majority of the marine debris collected by these small communities ends up as landfill. In many situations communities have reached capacity regarding landfill operations. In some instances local tipping stations refuse to accept any more marine debris. Coupled with the fact that the nearest recycling centre is some distance away at Bellingham in Washington State, the costs, resources and tactical planning required to transport the waste to a Recycling facility becomes prohibitive. Volunteer Groups and NGO s. The Gulf of Alaska Keepers (GoAK) and the Marine Conservation Alliance Foundation (MCAF) are 2 examples of community based groups that undertake marine debris 26

27 clean up and monitoring activities funded by the NOAA Programme. Whilst in Anchorage I met with representatives from both these groups and accompanied them on a clean up in Prince William Sound. Many thanks to Chris Pallister (GoAk), Bob King (MCAF) and John Whitney (NOAA) The Marine Conservation Alliance Foundation (MCAF) The Foundation was established in 2003 as the non-profit arm of the Alaskan Marine Conservation Alliance. Foundation members are drawn from the seafood industry and included most of the seafood processors that operate in Alaska, the owners of most ground fish and crab vessels in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska, fishing communities and the support industry. By supporting research and public education, the Marine Conservation Alliance Foundation s mission is to promote the conservation and sustainable use of fishery resources of the North Pacific. The stated goals of the MCA Foundation effort are: Cleaner beaches Removal of hazards to navigation Wildlife protection Develop and maintain a searchable database of known debris locations available to vessels In partnership with NOAA, the MCA Foundation oversees one of the largest marine debris cleanup programs in the nation. The MCA Foundation also partners with tribal governments, recreation and industry groups to develop and co-manage marine debris removal and research projects. These groups have removed and studied about 150 tons of debris so far. Studies conducted by these groups have included both the source and the accumulation rates of derelict fishing gear. In 2007, marine debris clean ups took place in Yakutat, Prince William Sound, Gore Point, Unalaska, Saint Paul, Saint George, Unalakleet, Shaktoolik and Yakutat. Clean ups are principally targeted and planned operations of time periods from weeks to months. Prior to any clean up activity, reconnaissance surveys are carried out as an aid to planning clean up and removal activities. In 2007 an additional 1,500 miles of coastline in locations around western Alaska and Kodiak Island was re surveyed to identify future cleanup efforts The Marine Conservation Foundation Alliance is also active in expanding Alaska's participation in the International Coastal Cleanup day. 27

28 Marine Conservation Alliance Foundation s Bob King assists with a marine debris clean up in Prince William Sound. I was personally impressed by the Foundations website that allows the public to report both marine debris encountered and marine animals affected by marine debris. The Gulf of Alaska Keepers The Gulf Of Alaska Keepers.(GoAK) in partnership with the Marine Conservation Alliance Foundation and NOAA, carry out on ground marine debris removal and research work. Principally working out of Whittier and concentrating on Prince William Sound, GoAk has been gathering momentum as a marine debris action group since Volunteers often use their own vessels including sea kayaks and canoes, to assist with clean up operations of varying proportions based on earlier surveys. Co-director of GoAk, Chris Pallister makes his vessel available as a mother ship to support island and remote shoreline clean ups. In some instances project funds contribute to offset the cost to volunteers for vessel fuel and food. Privately owned vessel used by GoAk in Prince William Sound. Chris Pallister (right) from GoAK with Bob King (left) of the MCFA return to the patrol vessel in Prince William Sound 28

29 Hawaiian Islands. It has been reported that every year over 50 tonnes of marine debris from domestic and foreign sources wash ashore in the Hawaiian Islands. Situated in close proximity to the infamous Eastern Garbage Patch, Hawai i is located in an ideal position to become host to an assortment of marine debris. In Hawai i a coordinated and multi-agency programme of individual Marine Debris Projects is being undertaken, funded by grants made available under the National Marine Debris Programme. Projects range from removal to recycling. It was the recycling initiatives that I found to be the most innovative and technically impressive. Driven by the demise of land fill opportunities, burning marine debris to produce power was seen as an alternative and should be applauded. I wish to thank Carey Morishige for her assistance with itinerary arrangements and meeting introductions for this portion of the Fellowship tour. Marine Debris Recycling Project. In response to the need for an alternative to Hawaii s shortage of land fill opportunities the Marine Debris Recycling Project was initiated. The Northwest Hawaiian Islands Clean-up Committee formed a Marine Debris to Energy Partnership in Partners were drawn from government agencies and private businesses. These partners included, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service U.S Fish & Wildlife Service U.S Coastguard Ms Chris Woolaway-Sea Grant Mr Howard Wiig-State Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism State Department of Transportation-Harbours Division State Department of Land & Natural resources City Department of Environmental Services-HPOWER City dept of Parks and Recreation Western Pacific Regional Fisheries Council The Ocean Conservancy Schnitzer Steel Hawaii Corp. From my observations, the most direct partnership producing an inspiring outcome is that between Schnitzer Steel and the State Department of Environmental Service s 29

30 HPOWER plant. My thanks go to Mr Howard Wiig for initially putting me in contact with NOAA representatives and bringing to my attention the Recycling initiatives being undertaken in the Trash to Power programme. HPOWER aims to preserve and protect the Natural Beauty of Hawai i by transforming waste into clean renewable electricity. Marine debris and other waste are burned in extremely high temperature incinerators or boilers, which in turn converts water (circulated in tubes through the boilers) to steam. The steam then drives turbines to produce power. Every year 45 megawatts of electricity is produced from trash by HPOWER which powers about 45,000 local homes. Prior to burning, the waste is shredded and magnets are used to extract metals which are also recycled through other processes. Waste volume is reduced by 90%. The ash that remains solidifies to the hardness of concrete and is being tested for use as a road base aggregate. The potential for environmentally detrimental exhaust emissions is negated by the use of a state of the art emission control system which includes a series of scrubbers (filters) and other processes and complies with strict federal, state and local environmental regulations. Emissions are monitored regularly. Information from HPOWER suggests that the process, saves 800,000 barrels of oil a year has saved the use of more than 10 million barrels of oil since it started operations. Reduced the need for landfill Reduced waste volume by 90% Has recycled 20,000 tons of metals Processes 2,000 tons of waste per day In the vicinity of 100 tons of marine debris are collected and burned a year which in turn provided electricity to power 45 houses for a year. There are moves to extend this programme to the mainland. It would cost in the vicinity of $300 million dollars to build an equivalent plant in Australia. Most of the marine debris collected in Hawai i ends up at HPOWER. Schnitzer Steel. When James Banigan, the General Manager of Schnitzer Steel was made aware that nets collected in Hawaii s Marine Debris programme were being dumped at land fill sites 30

31 he offered to assist in an alternative. Understanding that the nets were required to be shredded prior to the incineration process he set in motion, at the companies own cost, a process of transporting the nets and shredding them at his facility and then delivering the processed nets to HPOWER. Schnitzer Steel uses hydraulic shears designed to cut up scrap metal, to shred the ghost nets into small pieces. This works well while the cutting edges are new. Using their own trucks, the cut up net is then delivered to HPOWER who exempts the programme from any tipping fees. Schnitzer steel absorbs all the labour and transportation costs which I found impressive and in the spirit of a true partnership. On outer islands, where clean ups are being carried out, shipping or other similar containers are set up at collection points. The shipping and transport of these containers by local trucking (Alliance) and shipping agents (Matson) to the clean up site and then to Schnitzer Steel for processing is all done at no cost to the programme. Chopped up ghost nets at Schnitzer steel awaiting transport to HPOWER HPOWER s main control room where operating parameters are closely monitored. Honolulu Derelict Net Recycling Programme The Honolulu Derelict Net Recycling Programme at Port Reception on the island of Oahu is a highly innovative and excellent example of an initiative driven by the community and the fishing industry yet supported and part funded by the National Marine Debris Programme. For some time, Hawaiian long line fishers have voluntarily picked up ghost nets and other marine debris encountered whilst fishing and returned them to port where they were dumped in land fill. 31

32 Under the Honolulu Derelict Net Recycling Programme, purpose built container bins are located in Honolulu Harbor on Pier 38 where fishermen can dump their own or derelict fishing gear they have found. When the container is full Schnitzer Steel is called who then pick up the bin, empty the contents at their facility and then return the bin to Pier 38. The debris is then disposed of in 2 ways. 1) Marine debris like ghost nets or other fishing net items are transported to Schnitzer Steel where they are processed before ending up at H-Power where it is used to fuel the incinerators that that power generators. 2) Monofilament line is collected is collected from recycling bins and cleaned of hooks, leaders, weights, and trash by volunteers. It is then shipped to the Berkley Pure Fishing Company in Iowa. Berkley melts the line down into raw plastic pellets that can be made into other plastic products including tackle boxes, spools for line, fish habitats, and toys. It is not made into more monofilament line. This programme operates across the whole of the United States. Purpose built net receptacle on Pier 38. Signage displaying project partners is affixed to the net receptacle The Ocean Conservancy and Clean up the World Day. In 1986, the Ocean Conservancy pioneered a beach clean-up program in Texas. This programme has grown to become an International Coastal Cleanup (ICC). Every single State in the United States together with 127 countries all consolidate their effort for one day each year and carry out a beach clean-up day in their area. This is all undertaken by an army of dedicated volunteers. The ICC gathers information on the types of debris collected and enters this into its global database to produce information such as the fact that almost 58% of collected marine debris appears to come from shore-line and recreational activities, such as beach-picnicking and general littering. 32

33 On World Clean up day I participated in the Hawaiian International Clean Up effort and was able to witness the coordination and effort first hand. Volunteers became data detectives for a day and using standardised date collection sheets catalogued the marine little collected. Unfortunately, Australia is not one of the 127 countries that participate annually in this movement. Whist on my study tour I made contact with the Ocean Conservancy to offer my assistance to rectify this in the future. Volunteers were grouped into teams for the International clean up. A mornings worth of debris! Carey Morishige, the Outreach Coordinator explains to volunteers how they will become a Data Detective for the day. A data sheet uses 4 broad categorises for Marine Debris collected. These being, Shoreline and recreational activities Ocean/Waterway activities Smoking related activities Medical/personal hygiene Under each of these categories the data sheet then lists specific items. For example fishing nets, fish or crab traps, floats, buoys and fishing line fall under the Ocean/waterway category. Volunteers count the number of items and mark the results on the data sheets next to the listed items. Critics of the Programme suggest a one day per year clean up fails to impact on the problem at hand. This would be true if all clean up activity stopped until the next yearly international clean up. What they fail to see is the purpose of the clean up, being to raise public awareness and to get a quick snap shot over the whole world on one day concerning marine litter. Whilst in Australia we do have Clean up Australia day, a complimentary programme in tune with the International Coastal Clean Up concentrating on marine Litter with a standard reporting feature would have immense benefits. 33

34 Airborne Technologies Whilst in Hawaii I was able to attend a meeting regarding the use of unmanned aircraft, in an effort to reduce the impacts of marine debris. The unmanned aerial system (UAS) developed by Airborne Technologies will be used to detect derelict fishing gear at-sea in an area in the North Pacific s Subtropical Convergence Zone. This is a location where marine debris is known to accumulate. Launched by hand from a ship or small boat and landing on water for retrieval, the UAS, named Malolo 1 (flying fish) is equipped with an inertial navigation unit, GPS, and camera attached to the underside. Weighing 10 lbs and with a wingspan of 7ft it will fly a pre programmed or an operator remote controlled search pattern from a mother vessel. This will allow the vessel to maintain a true course and only deviating if images received from Malolo 1 suggest marine debris has been encountered. This will have 2 main benefits. saving vessel fuel locating and removing marine debris before it ends up on the shore, entangles wildlife or washes up in important protected areas such as the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument (Northwestern Hawaiian Islands). As previously highlighted, it certainly makes more sense to remove nets and other debris from the sea before they can damage habitats like coral reefs and entangle endangered marine species such monk seals and turtles or any other marine wildlife. Other initiatives based on pre identifying floating ghost nets and marine debris is being developed. Utilising Satellite Ocean remote sensing techniques to identify ocean surface convergence zones where the accumulation of marine debris could be expected, clean up operations can now be commisioned to remove ghost nets before they can cause damage to coral reefs or entangle marine animals, seabirds or vessels. The Hawai i an Wildlife Fund. Hawai'i Wildlife Fund is a non-profit organization made up educators, conservationists, researchers, naturalists, communities, volunteers and donors dedicated to the conservation of Hawaii's native wildlife. Using research and education the Fund undertakes a variety of projects on Hawai i Island or Big Island. One such project is the HWF Hawai'i Island Marine Debris Removal Project I met with Bill Gilmartin, the President of the Fund, and accompanied him on a clean up and inspection of an area known as South Point where a combination of trade winds and ocean currents cause an amazingly high quantity of marine debris to wash up in 34

35 this area of remote coastline. This is of major concern as this area of coast is the home of endangered species such as the Hawaiian monk seal, humpback whales and contains nesting sites for the critically endangered hawksbill turtle. Over 4 years the Fund has removed over 90 tons of marine debris from 9 miles of coastline. They estimate that debris comes ashore at a rate of tons per year. To enable large bundles of net to be removed, using Marine Debris Programme Grant funds Bill developed and modified a vehicle to specifically deal with the net removal process. The modification allows him to work independently or with help in a safe manner avoiding injury associated with heavy lifting. His modifications and the net grapple he uses have strong applicability to the Australian situation. Logging tongs are used to grasp bundles or loose ghost nets. As load is applied to the ring the tongs close. A winch set up high in the back of the vehicles tray has its cable attached to the logging tongs. The winch then hauls the debris up and into the back of the vehicle. The vehicles tray tips for easy unloading of the ghost nets at the holding site. The Fund has educated and made the public aware of marine debris and their efforts to combat the problem to the extent that in some instances when locals are recreating in the South Point area they pick up and stack small piles of marine debris and ghost nets which enables Bill and his vehicle to pick them up at a later date when he is patrolling the area. Matson, a private company provides containers and transport free of charge to move the collected Ghost nets to the island of Oahu to become part of the Marine Debris to Power programme. Unfortunately over 2,000 bags of small plastic items that can not be burned have been buried in county run landfill sites. In October 2007 Bill was awarded Conservationist of the Year by the Hawaiian Conservation Council. 35

36 Kaho olawe Marine Debris Removal. Whilst on Maui, I met with staff and gave a presentation at the Office of the Kaho olawe Island Reserve Commission. I was given an over view of their operation and invited to participate in a pre-clean planning patrol. On this patrol the clean up target area was patrolled by vessel and a dive team inspected and secured mooring facilities for the Coastguard barge that would be assisting. The Commission has been actively coordinating annual clean up activities since Access to the islands coastline and beaches is by air or sea only and due to the past use of the island; (military live ordinance target practice up until 1990) is uninhabited except for a small number of Commission staff and volunteers. As previously explained a pre clean up survey is completed prior to any clean ups. In this location the pre survey can include trained explosive ordinance disposal specialists who scan the beach for live munitions and set up safe working boundaries. If a net does not pull out of the sand easily it is cut off. There is no tug and pull and lets see what happens! (boom?) Debris is stacked at collection points or on pre spread cargo nets and removed and taken back to Maui by helicopter if appropriate. The debris is a mix of nets and other articles and in the past has ended up in Maui s land fill sites as the debris needs to be sorted before it can be sent to Oahu and become part of the Trash to Power initiative. As on Big Island, Matson are being approached to sponsor a container and the transport of that container to Oahu to facilitate collected and sorted marine debris to enter the trash to power programme. The Army and Coast Guard are included in planning operations and can become an integral part of the removal process by supplying personnel and appropriate vessel and landing craft (barge). Kaho olawe Island Reserve Commision( KIRC) personnel and patrol vessel. A sample of marine debris found on Kano olawe Island destined to be removed 36

37 Seattle. The Seattle experience differed from that which I encountered in the fact that the major source of marine debris appeared to originate from local or domestic sources. While there certainly was the presence of ghost nets, the principle problem appeared to be generated from derelict crab traps. Many thanks go to Mr Nir Barnea (NOAA) who organised my itinerary and accompanied me on this portion of my study tour. Once again a suite of projects funded and coordinated by the NOAA s Federal Programme were in action. I was able to come in contact with a sub set of the Programme which included discussions with 2 Native Government Groups, an attempt to locate and remove a derelict fishing net from an area of Pugot Sound near the town of Everett, an overview of NOAA facilities and programmes and an inspection of NOAA s outreach centre at Port Angeles. Derelict fishing gear has been a major problem in the waters around Washington State for some time. The Northwest Straits Commission suggests that from within the areas, that includes the Northwest Straits, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and northern Pugot Sound from Everett to the Canadian border, has had an estimated 100 tons of derelict fishing gear removed over a number of years. A removal program, The Derelict Fishing Gear Removal Project once again, is a collaborative project developed with NOAA, Natural Resource Consultants and the Northwest Straits Commission. Natural Resource Consultants Inc, (a private company) works in several capacities coordinating the many different agencies and organizations involved in this work. I met with Jeff June, the principle of the company, who with his team, is responsible for nearly all of the on-the/under the-water work removing derelict fishing gear. He is also responsible for data collection which includes documenting when, where and how much gear of what type is removed. Biological information such as marine animal entanglements and habitat impacts is also recorded and reported on. Pre-removal surveys to locate and quantify derelict fishing gear are carried out using side scanning sonar and the locations are marked using GPS technology which is transferred to real time computer map applications. Clean up operations then use this information to direct vessels and dive up crews to the derelict gear to be removed.trained commercial divers and vessels are used to remove the gear detected or reported in several locations. Recycling opportunities are being investigated. Computer displaying GPS marks guides the vessel to reported or sonar located derelict fishing gear 37 Divers using surface supplied air are used to retrieve derelict fishing gear. The Diver speaks with the vessel crew using underwater communication equipment who guides him to the gear. Visibility is usually a metre or less

38 A major focus of the project is that it does not attempt to proportion blame on fishers for losing gear but actively seeks them to report its loss. In fact gear retrieved is returned to the owner at no cost. A toll-free hotline and a Web site are set up to enable the reporting of derelict fishing gear in the water or on shore. There is also some suggestion that some derelict fishing gear will be left in place and the effects will be studied in situ and a comparison study monitoring the recovery rate of an area after a net has been removed. A major lesson learned here was that any ghost nets are cut free rather than ripped of the seafloor where habitat like corals, may be destroyed by such a harsh removal method. I met with two Native American Tribal groups, the Makah and the Nisqually, to discuss their involvement in the Marine Debris Programme. The groups have been trained in techniques for derelict gear removal and project coordination and documentation. The goal of the programme has been to transfer skills and expertise in marine debris removal and identification to outer coast communities residents and tribal members and to facilitate funding for future efforts. In this way there can be locally initiated actions, often in remote locations that will aim to reduce the harmful impacts of marine debris on marine animals and vessel activity. The Makah Tribe utilizes its commercial fishing fleet vessels and operators to assist in marine debris removal while the Nisqually Nation operate a highly organized and well trained commercial diving operation based on the commercial harvest of sea urchin and sea cucumber. It was a pleasure to meet both these groups. In Australia, the current Carpentaria Ghost Net Programme has been working on this very same principle of building up the capacity of each Indigenous group in these remote locations to carry out marine debris initiatives with mentoring and resource support from a coordinating body. The Olympia Coast Peninsular is a designated coastal wilderness area of remote coastline and with limited access. In the past volunteer clean up crew s access the coastline by walking trails or small vessels and then clean up and bag marine debris. This debris is often left at collection points for later removal as it becomes impossible to haul the trash out via the remote access trails. Funding from the National programme allows for an initiative that will complete the clean up effort by sending in trash pick up crews using support vessels where appropriate and the restoration of any vegetation impacted upon by the stockpile sites. Washington DC The Washington leg of my Fellowship allowed me to visit NOAA headquarters and speak with the Director of the NOAA Marine Debris Programme and meet with the International and General Council officers. Special thanks to Megan Forbes for arranging my meeting itinerary. These meetings allowed me to present and to inform 38

39 NOAA of the current Australian situation and to develop support relationships at an International Level for our efforts. These meetings produced two potential benefits. Firstly, discussions with Ms Holly Bamford, the Marine Debris Programme Director resulted in the potential for support funding or project liaison relating to the development of an International Marine Debris Identification manual and secondly meeting with the International & General Council Officers resulted in support for Australia s efforts at an International level which will transcend to International forums where these delegates attend. From this office, I met with Rod Ehler, an economist working on a project to determine the socioeconomic impacts of marine debris. For example, ghost nets and derelict traps continue to fish long after they have been abandoned. What is the size of this take and what is the cost in regards to lost income or product value? What is the value of the wildlife killed by derelict fishing gear? How do we place a value on the environment? These issues are being addressed by Rod s project. Working out of the Smithsonian Environmental Research Centre (SERC) NOAA staff are engaged in the Chesapeake Ghost Pot Project. Commercial crab pots become lost through climatic events and buoy cut offs from navigating vessels. Using side scanning sonar, computer software programmes and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) the area is being mapped and the abandoned gear is removed in a similar way as explained previously in the Seattle experience. In most instances grapples as apposed to divers are used to retrieve the gear.. Complimentary research is attempting to determine the catch rate of each abandoned trap and the traps life expectancy once lost. These results would assist with determining the socioeconomic impacts of ghost pots. Side scanning sonar about to be deployed as part of the Chesapeake derelict fishing gear mapping and removal programme Crab trap being used to investigate the catch rate of abandoned traps. 39

40 It was during this leg of my tour that I witnessed a different side of the marine debris debate, urban waste and litter and the remedial actions aimed at minimising these impacts and rectifying the health of the catchment. I was personally amazed at the amount of fast food litter floating on the river which has the potential to end up in the ocean. Anacostia Watershed Society.(AWS) A met with and accompanied this group on a tour of the Anacostia River basin area. In Australia similar groups would be termed Catchment Management Groups. The Anacostia River catchment was at one stage one of the most polluted rivers in the United States. Concerned individuals formed the Anacostia Watershed Society in 1989 and developed the slogan START-Stop Trashing the Anacostia River Today and set to work to educate the public on issues relating to catchment management and to restore the river and its catchment to a healthy system suitable for human use sand enjoyment. The AWS instigated an environmental education program called Watershed Explorers. Aimed at school children in grades 6 to 12 and using trained AWS personnel, environmental science is taught through hands on experiments and field excursions. Guided canoe tours are also used in this programme which was expanded to include the River Habitat Programme for grades 4 to 5. In Australia this would parallel with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authorities Reef Guardian School programme. Coordinated volunteer clean ups and point source education initiatives including stormwater drain management programmes, river bank revegetation, restoration of native wetlands and the stabilizing of riverbanks have all been successfully implemented by this group. Urban trash floats down the river and ultimately to the sea A School education programme involves a field trip to the river 40

41 New Orleans. The Gulf of Mexico Marine Debris project was born out of the need to respond to the effects of Hurricane Katrina and the massive and varied amount of marine debris that entered the Gulf through the catastrophic flooding events associated with the hurricane. NOAA s project team is using hydrographical surveying techniques to map the debris which can consist of boats, cars, household goods, parts of houses, in fact anything that was once land based prior to the flood event. The presence of this debris is presenting an immediate problem to vessel navigation and the local fishing industry, more specifically, its prawn trawl fleet (shrimp) with the result being a substantial loss of income to many operators and a huge loss to the local economy. Again using side scanning sonar, debris can be located and mapped for future removal operations with the information also being used in navigation alerts for vessel operators. A web site where printable maps can be accessed has also been developed as part of a public outreach programme in collaboration with such entities as the Marine Debris Programme, the Office of Response and Restoration and with State SeaGrant offices. The outreach programme is seen as a critical part of the programme due to the potential for the marine debris to present an immense threat to the safety of the boating fraternity that includes commercial and recreational fishers, shrimp boat operators and recreational boaters. The actual on ground removal programme while overseen by NOAA, is managed by the Coastguard Service and uses contractors with appropriate removal equipment to undertake specific removal activities. Clean up contractors at work in the Gulf of Mexico U.S. Coastguard personnel and contractors planning clean up activities 41

42 Stennis Space Centre. Housed within the Stennis Space Centre, NOAA has facilities for monitoring weather and modelling climatic events including ocean currents and movements. It was here I had one of the most promising consequences of my study tour. After presenting to NOAA staff at the Centre concerning the Australian situation, we had some discussions regarding the effects of the oceans currents on the transportation and distribution of marine debris and the need to produce accurate maps to predict the most likely accumulation spots and source points for this debris. I spoke of the need to get proactive and produce a map of the ocean depicting these currents and if possible to overlay the known recognised fishing grounds of every fishery operating today as well as cataloguing the fishing gear they are currently using as an aid to identifying washed up marine debris originating from the commercial fishing industry. This suggestion was supported by the group and on the conclusion of my information session I was approached by the Director of the Centre, Mr Russell Beard, with the offer to use NOAA s resources and facility at Stennis to produce ocean current maps for the waters surrounding Australia and within the Gulf of Carpentaria as an in kind contribution to our project. I am currently in the process of following up this offer. CONCLUSIONS. Stennis Space Centre NOAA staff demonstrating mapping techniques 42