Pictured here on a recent mission aboard Guice Offshore mini supply vessel GO Glory, GO Marine Services Protected Species Observers were able to retrieve some marine debris they encountered offshore in between their regular duties. To help them, the captain angled the GO Glory so they could reach the trash from the deck with a spear.
GO Marine Services Protected Species Observers (PSOs) help our clients stay in compliance with stipulated mitigation measures of their particular project. PSOs document and generate reports on the required compliance aspects and also function as a source of information on marine wildlife and other environmental matters associated with the project.
They are responsible, impartial and unbiased during operations that require mitigation efforts and reporting. PSOs are involved in a wide range of activities such as standard visual monitoring, passive and active acoustic monitoring, aerial surveys, dirigible and ROV surveys among others.
Although the majority of the PSO focus revolves around marine mammals and sea turtles, PSOs often deal with a number of other wildlife groups such as birds and fish.
What if You Encounter Marine Debris While on the Water?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program is the United States government’s lead for addressing the impacts of marine debris on our ocean, waterways, and Great Lakes. NOAA works with organizations nationwide and globally to prevent marine debris from entering the environment, remove it from coastal areas, better understand the problem through research and shoreline monitoring, and respond to debris created by disasters.
Our trash travels, and whether it’s properly thrown away or dumped on purpose, it can find its way offshore, into our ocean and throughout our Great Lakes. This could happen at the beach, while boating on the water, or even many miles inland where trash can be blown and swept into waterways. Wherever marine debris comes from, it causes a lot of problems.
If you encounter small marine debris while boating, you can try to remove and recover it. This should be done carefully and safely. Use common sense and follow general safety guidelines.
If it appears to be hazardous, contact the appropriate authorities. You can learn more about handling potentially hazardous debris on the NOAA Marine Debris Handling Guide web page.
If you encounter large marine debris while on the water, including abandoned and derelict vessels, make a note of the location. You may be able to report that information to local agencies or organizations.
Check the ADV Info Hub for contacts and information about reporting abandoned and derelict vessels.
To access extensive educational and community materials on America’s marine debris program, click HERE.
