Mid-Atlantic Committee on the Ocean Update

MACO Work Groups are proceeding with their 2021 work plans which can be found on the website here. In addition to the featured projects elsewhere in this issue, some of the activities include:

Marine Debris: held the Mid-Atlantic Marine Debris Reduction Summit, launched the Prevent Balloon Litter campaign assisted by regional aquariums which will provide campaign analytics.

Non-consumptive Recreation: engaged commercial whale/dolphin watch businesses on the creation of a data map that will show tour hot spots on the Mid-Atlantic Ocean Data Portal.

Ocean Acidification: held the OA Action Planning and Implementation Workshop, planning the 2022 OA webinar series.

Ocean Mapping and Data: maps and data layers continue to be added or updated (see Portal Update).

Offshore Renewable Energy: To better understand regional data needs, MARACOOS and MARCO are developing a survey for regional ocean planning stakeholders to solicit information on data needs in connection with offshore wind development companies’ requests for input on sensors on turbines.

Maritime Commerce and Navigation Safety: continues to reference the Portal in notices of public comment periods on Port Access Route Studies.

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