Nearly two years after Superstorm Sandy pounded the northeast, communities in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island are preparing to track down and remove debris from marshland.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced it will spend $4.7 million for debris removal in marshland in the states, including New York City.
Dianna Parker, a spokeswoman at NOAA's marine debris program, said that much of what was tossed into marshes and coastline areas by the October 2012 storm included construction debris, docks, decks, lumber, and boat remains.
Connecticut environmental officials say marine debris are potential hazards to navigation, fishing grounds, and ecosystems. Cleanup began soon after the storm in public areas, such as beaches and parks.
Work will begin in Connecticut when permits are issued, and could wrap up in a year.