Shipboard Observation Form for Floating Marine Debris

This data collection project is being coordinated by the NOAA Marine Debris Program, recreational sailors (respondents), NGOs (respondents) as well as numerous experts on marine debris observations at sea. The Shipboard Observation Form for Floating Marine Debris was created based on methods used in studies of floating marine debris by established researchers, previous shipboard observational studies conducted at sea by NOAA, and the experience and input of recreational sailors. The goal of this form is to be able to calculate the density of marine debris within a specific area. Additionally, this form will help collect data on potential marine debris resulting from the March 2011 Japan tsunami and future severe marine debris generating events in order to better model movement of the debris as well as prepare (as needed) for debris arrival. This form may additionally be used to collect data on floating marine debris in any water body. NOAA will receive a copy of the collected data for analysis. This survey will assist us in carrying out activities prescribed in the Marine Debris Act of 2012, mainly “identify, determine sources of, assess, prevent, reduce, and remove marine debris and address the adverse impacts of marine debris on the economy of the United States, marine environment, and navigation safety ”assessment".

The latest form for Shipboard Observation Form for Floating Marine Debris expires 2021-06-30 and can be found here.