New Short Film Celebrates Solutions for Aquaculture Marine Debris in Yaquina Bay, OR

We’re excited to announce the release of our new short documentary, Community Solutions for Aquaculture Marine Debris, now streaming on YouTube!

Videographer: CKC Media

About the Project

Filmed in Yaquina Bay on Oregon’s central coast, this documentary is part of Dr. Sarah Wolf’s Oregon Sea Grant Natural Resource Policy Fellowship with the Surfrider Foundation. It tells the story of a unique, collaborative effort to address a persistent marine debris problem caused by expanded polystyrene (EPS) floating docks, plastic ropes and mesh bags used in oyster farming.

Visit the  Aquaculture Marine Debris Project Website to learn more.

Above: Photos from May 3rd volunteer cleanup at Oregon Oyster Farms in Toledo, OR Photo: CKC Media.

Who’s Featured in the Film?

• Oregon Oyster Farms: Working to upgrade their infrastructure and reduce debris pollution in the bay.

• Surfrider Staff & Newport Chapter Volunteers: Dedicated community members hauling foam, ropes, and other debris from the water during organized cleanups.

• Oregon Sea Grant: Providing scientific expertise, including research on invasive species that accelerate dock deterioration.

• Materials Innovator: Industry expert testing new, more durable aquaculture materials that can better withstand coastal conditions.

Above: Oyster Farmer, Max Wiegardt, alongside Newport Chapter volunteers at an oyster farm cleanup. Photo: CKC Media.

Read More: Cleanup Blogs & Results

This documentary builds on two large-scale cleanups earlier this year that resulted in an incredible 18,000 pounds of debris removed from Yaquina Bay. From foam dock fragments to old ropes and tires, these events brought together volunteers, partner organizations, and local businesses for a shared goal: a cleaner, healthier bay.

Read the cleanup stories:

• BLOG: From Foam To Feast: Poole Slough Sweep - May 3 2025

• BLOG: Foam Fighters Take on Halfway Park - May 17, 2025

Community, Collaboration, and Oysters by the Dozen

After the two cleanups, participants enjoyed oyster cookouts and social hours thanks to the generous support of local businesses, including Pelican Brewing Company, Rogue Ales & Spirits, and Oregon Oyster Farms. These gatherings fostered casual conversations and strengthened community bonds, making cleanups not only effective but fun and memorable.

Special thanks to community groups and partners who helped make these cleanups possible, including: Lincoln County Solid Waste District, Thompson's Sanitary Service, Dahl Disposal, and MidCoast Watersheds Council. 

Above: Special thanks to Pelican Brewing Company for sponsoring our social hour following the May 17th cleanup. Photo: CKC Media.