Removing Debris from Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary

From June 27–July 2, a collaborative effort involving NOAA, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, Moody Gardens, Georgia Aquarium, T&T Salvage LLC, and Anchor Diving successfully removed over 1,700 pounds of debris from Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. This sanctuary, located in the Gulf of Mexico, is known for its diverse marine life, including mesophotic ecosystems that thrive in the twilight zone of the ocean.

Marine debris poses a significant threat to these delicate ecosystems by smothering corals, entangling marine life, and introducing pollutants. The team focused on removing ghost nets and trawling sledges from the seafloor at Stetson Bank, identified during previous missions dating back to 2009.

Dedicated Team Effort

The mission involved commercial divers equipped with specialized gear to reach the seafloor and safely remove the debris. With round-the-clock operations, the science team, divers, dive operations team, and crane operators worked together seamlessly to locate, rig, and lift the debris onto the vessel.

Once on deck, the science team meticulously categorized, measured, and assessed the collected debris, removing any associated organisms for genetic analysis. Juvenile fish, corals, sponges, and other invertebrates were sampled and, when possible, returned to their natural habitat.

Supporting Conservation Efforts

This removal effort aligns with broader restoration and conservation projects within the National Marine Sanctuary System, including initiatives focused on Mesophotic and Deep Benthic Communities Restoration and High-Impact Marine Debris Removal. Additionally, recovered items will be donated to Washed Ashore, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about marine debris through education and art.

Partnerships and Funding

The mission was made possible through funding from the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, supported by a grant from the NOAA Marine Debris Program. Partnerships with Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, Moody Gardens, and the Mesophotic and Deep Benthic Communities Restoration projects were instrumental in the success of this collaborative effort.

By working together to remove marine debris from Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, this dedicated team has taken a significant step towards protecting and preserving the delicate marine ecosystems that call this sanctuary home.