http://marinedebrisblog.wordpress.com/2014/10/08/marine-debris-diver-we-hauled-14-metric-tons-of-derelict-nets-off-maro-reef/

Marine Debris Diver: We Hauled 14 Metric Tons of Derelict Nets off Maro Reef

October 8, 2014 by NOAA Marine Debris Program

Two Marine Debris Program staffers are participating in NOAA?s annual
mission to remove derelict nets and other marine debris from sensitive
coral reefs and shorelines in Papah?naumoku?kea Marine National
Monument, one of the largest marine conservation areas in the world. An
estimated 52 tons of derelict fishing gear washes up in the Monument
each year, threatening the pristine ecosystem. Follow their journey.

By: Naomi Blinick

Naomi is a guest blogger and marine debris diver on the mission.

As a new member of the marine debris team, I am both humbled and awed by
what I saw in our first week of field operations at Maro Reef. While our
first day presented us with ideal conditions, we were confronted with
strong currents, rain squalls, and poor visibility throughout the week.
Yet in just six days, we still managed to exceed our expectations for
this site and surveyed nearly 1 million square meters of area and
recovered an estimated 14 metric tons of marine debris!