08/13/2026
2025 NOAA Monitoring: By the Numbers
Spearhead Project Earth continues building the scientific side of our mission through NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration’s Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Project (MDMAP).
Led by SPE Environmental Scientist Jasper Millman, with guidance and support from Zach Nemec of Pennsylvania Sea Grant, our 2025 monitoring included:
• 11 monitoring events completed
• 1,452 debris items documented
• 12 community scientists trained
• 31 volunteer hours dedicated to monitoring
Using standardized NOAA protocols, we document the types, quantities and locations of debris found along the Delaware River. The data helps us better understand pollution trends over time while contributing to broader marine debris research.
We’re continuing to expand environmental monitoring, data collection and hands-on community science throughout the watershed.