Nurdle Patrol 
The Nurdle Patrol is a community science project dedicated to addressing the pervasive issue of nurdles—tiny plastic pellets used in manufacturing. These pellets often end up on beaches, riverbanks, and shorelines, posing a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems. Nurdles get into our oceans via factory waste and spills during transport, both on land and at sea. By participating in Nurdle Patrol, volunteers conduct surveys to count and document nurdles found in their local areas. This data helps identify pollution hotspots and informs strategies to mitigate plastic pollution at its source.
Join us in the fight against plastic pollution by becoming a part of Nurdle Patrol and making a tangible difference in protecting our environment! You can conduct your surveys with the Oregon Coast Aquarium, which offers opportunities for volunteers to get involved in nurdle monitoring.
NOAA Marine Debris

The NOAA Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Project (MDMAP) is a vital community science initiative that engages volunteers and partners nationwide to survey and document marine debris on shorelines. By selecting local monitoring sites, participants conduct regular surveys to record the types and amounts of debris, providing valuable data to track changes over time, identify sources, and inform prevention efforts.
Join us in making a difference by participating in MDMAP and contributing to a cleaner, healthier ocean! You can conduct your surveys with the Oregon Coast Aquarium, which offers opportunities for volunteers to get involved in marine debris monitoring.
Ocean Diagnostics

Ocean Diagnostics is an innovative environmental impact company dedicated to diagnosing and protecting our planet from plastic pollution and biodiversity loss. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and scientific services, Ocean Diagnostics provides essential tools and data to advance environmental conservation efforts. Through community science and education initiatives, Ocean Diagnostics empowers volunteers and partners to participate in monitoring and assessing marine environments. This collaborative approach helps identify pollution sources, track changes in biodiversity, and develop effective solutions to environmental threats.
Join us in our mission to discover, diagnose, and protect our oceans. Your involvement makes a significant impact on preserving marine ecosystems for future generations! You can conduct your surveys with the Oregon Coast Aquarium, which offers opportunities for volunteers to get involved in marine environment monitoring.
Oregon Shores CoastWatch

Oregon Shores CoastWatch is a dynamic citizen science program that empowers individuals to become stewards of Oregon’s coastline. By adopting a mile-long segment of the coast, volunteers monitor and document natural and human-caused changes, wildlife, and other phenomena. Through hands-on participation and educational opportunities, CoastWatch enables citizens to actively safeguard Oregon’s shores. Volunteer reports and photos contribute valuable data that informs conservation efforts and enhances our understanding of coastal health.
Join us in shaping a more sustainable future for our coastal communities and ecosystems! You can conduct your surveys with the Oregon Coast Aquarium, which offers opportunities for volunteers to get involved in coastal monitoring.