1. Waterway debris isn't just an eyesore. It's dangerous. And it sticks around for a long time -- especially plastic, which lasts for hundreds of years.
2. Each year, birds, fish and other mammals are killed or injured by waterway debris. Turtles mistake plastic bags for jellyfish. Birds get tangled in monofilament fishing lines or discarded nets. Fish get trapped in six-pack rings.
3. Marine debris also threatens boating equipment. Plastic bags and other debris can clog engine water intakes or get caught in propellers. Trash can damage or snarl fishermen's nets.
4. Waterway trash also looks bad -- and that's bad for business. After all, who wants to visit an ugly place?