Ocean Defenders Alliance

I have been volunteering with ODA off and on for 13 years. Their dedication only continues to get deeper by expanding their efforts, more outreach, open-mindedness to new opportunities, and community involvement! I couldn't be more impressed and honored to be apart of such an incredible non-profit organization that truly is all about protecting Mother Earth and involving and educating everyone they can!

I've been diving with ODA in Hawaii for about a year. I've worked with quite a few volunteer groups, and can say from experience that this is a well-run organizations that takes their mission seriously and is always mindful of where and how to properly use their funds. We've collected an impressive amount of trash and debris from the Hawaiian coastline. All this would still be down there fouling marine life if not for their hard work!

Last week we found a ghost net in Maunalua Bay and were able to get 6 GREAT volunteers immediately ready to help! ODA VOLUNTEERS ARE THE MOST DEDICATED AND LOVING PEOPLE ON THE PLANET! MALAMA I KE KAI!

Sarah Millison and the various dive operators that support ODA along the Kona coast, especially Kona Honu Divers, have provided incredibly productive and consistent opportunities for local divers to be involved in cleaning up the dive sites we visit and love. I’ve been very impressed with Sarah and all the volunteers who turn out for the ODA dive days. As someone who’s been diving the Kona coast for 30 years, it’s a privilege and an honor to be involved in helping preserve and improve the quality of our reefs.

ODA helps keep our oceans clean!! I appreciate all the hard work they do.
I am a diver and ocean lover, going to the beach is a special part of my life. I’m grateful for this organization.

I love the work that ODA does. They help people, like me, participate in cleaning up our oceans! Underwater cleanups take a specific skill set, and I’m so impressed by ODA’s ability to put skilled volunteers where they need to be to do the work! Facilitating, educating and growing community all while making our oceans cleaner, and healthier!

ODA has been doing a great amount of cleanup in Hawaii. Well organized and very educational. We volunteer every chance we get

I've been a volunteer w ODA since 2018, helping with channel, beach, and harbor cleanups...It's a fantastic organization comprised of individuals dedicated to keeping our waterways clean and free of trash...They do cleanups not only in Southern California, but in the Hawaiian Islands as well...

These guys contribute directly to the communities involved, don’t ask for anything in return - and are all action!

Anybody who's going into our oceans and removing unwanted materials which are killing marine life ~ they gain a thousand stars!

Well done and a great thank you for your excellent service works!!

Ocean Defenders Alliance is a fantastic organization. I have followed their work for many years. They are performing a critically important function in removing deadly ghost gear and other marine debris from the oceans. They also provide essential education to schools and other groups. They are increasing the range and areas that they service, and are helping to make the oceans more healthy.

I NEVER set my alarm for a weekend. Except when ODA has a clean up, then I'm super charged to drag myself out of bed, hit a triple espresso, and get after a clean up whether it's on a beach, along a shore line, or on a pier. It's a great group of like minded individuals who throw themselves at a variety of tasks with a goal of a debris-free ocean. This goal extends beyond the organized events to our personal walks along our local beach as we pick up pieces of plastic, fishing lines, rope, nets etc. anything that finds its way to our shores. We often get stopped by fellow beach walkers who ask what we're collecting, and when we say "trash" a common reply is "I/we need to start doing that.." Pebbles in the lake, ripples, yada yada. I've been volunteering with ODA for nearly 4 years and I cannot think of a better collection of people to work alongside. They're fun, they're energetic, and they care about our cause. Come join us if you're interested in volunteering. It's worth setting a weekend alarm.

Ocean Defenders Alliance Hawai'i is an awesome non-profit organization that shows results/impacts at every clean-up! Through many years of volunteerism and education they instill in people, communities and other organizations the importance of marine conservation, the harm ocean debris causes in and outside/around the ocean, and the Kuleana (responsibility) we have to protect the ʻĀina (land) - from Mauka to Makai (towards the mountains and oceans) - one person at a time. Mahalo for coming to Hawai'i, and the opportunity to learn from you, and volunteer with you on Oahu!

Love being able to give back to the islands where we live and ODA provides a way for me to do that! Thanks ODA!

Ocean Defenders Alliance does critical conservation work in Hawaii and I find it very rewarding volunteering my time. Restoring the reef and saving marine animals is a very important mission and I will support ODA any way I can.

Great non profit - donations aren’t lost on bureaucracy and administration - it gets straight to work cleaning up the oceans!

Great organization that harnesses our desire to clean up the oceans and help the critters who live there.

This organization does an amazing job of cleaning up abandoned fishing gear which poses an extreme hazard to marine life & the marine ecosystem.

ODA is truly one of a kind. Getting to work with all of the amazing volunteers to remove marine debris from our beaches and ocean is what marine conservation is all about. Ocean Defenders Alliance IS making a difference for our ocean habitats and marine life.

It's hard work, removing derelict fishing gear, and ODA works through rough seas and poor visibility to get the job done. The team is dedicated to its mission and has saved untold numbers of sea creatures.

ODA is a great non profit for the environment and the educational aspects of it. I think it’s so important to teach children and adults about the Ocean, the care of it, it’s beautiful and how to respect it. I would love to see ODA be involved in schools and work with the local teachers. Thanks ODA
For all that you have been doing to
Keep the Oceans clean!

Great mission, great people, and making a HUGE difference. Thank you ODA for all you do!

ODA has a long history of working toward the cleanup of the ocean bottoms. On a regular basis, the organization scours local reefs and wrecks for lost lobster traps, fishing nets and other debris. These efforts are frequently in challenging sea conditions with large swells and poor visibility., and of course the chilly waters off our coast!

The all volunteer dive team provides its own equipment and maintenance for these trips.

This organization is amazing, I have observed them on numerous occasions as volunteers have retrieved ocean debris from our local California waters. As a teacher I have also had a number of my students personally assisting in this process and can verify that they were each personally inspired by the experience. I know of one young lady who took scuba lessons so that when she is of age she could also assist with this work

ODA has such a passion for the ocean and all the animals in the ocean!

A great nonprofit that does incredible work in removing marine debris and is actively helping reduce our global pollution problem!

There are a lot of nonprofits who do beach cleanups in the area. ODA is the only one tough enough to tackle our harbors. Being an ocean tourism based economy, our harbors are the main interface between the town and the ocean. ODA’s work engages the right community members to hit ocean pollution at its source.

This is a great organization. By focusing all their efforts on cleaning ocean debris, they can make a noticeable impact in the communities where they operate. Plus the events are really fun.

If you love the ocean and would like to help keep it clean for future generations, I highly recommend volunteering and contributing to ODA.

Fun boat trips and I’m always happy to cleanup! Thanks for all you do!

ODA does some amazing work! They are a nonprofit organization working to help protect our precious ocean! Ocean life is so important! ODA helps stop/prevent as many of the harmful effects that littering and waste have on our oceans. Truly such an amazing organization!

I have volunteered with ODA multiple times as a diver and deck crew member. ODA works hard to utilize donor support directly towards removing fishing debris from the ocean along with many other kinds of debris we see while out on the water. Kurt (the founder) does a great job of keeping volunteers mission focused and inspired. I have helped ODA remove over a thousand pounds of debris from the ocean which is just a small amount compared to how much they have collectively removed over the years. ODA is one of the best nonprofits I have had the fortune to volunteer with and I hope to do so again in the near future.

ODA is one of the only non profits in California and Hawaii doing work to directly pull out derelict fishing gear from the ocean. Their work is making an amazing impact to the marine habitats that they are serving. I LOVE their mission and love the crew, every single volunteer is a pleasure to work with!

Ocean Defenders Alliance is an outstanding organization from top to bottom and a catalyst for profound change in how we treat the ocean and marine animals. Kurt the founder is an individual of unique caliber and commitment who has decades of grass roots marine conservation activism and results. They truly deserve your support today!

Incredible organization that my son has volunteered with. I truly appreciate the money and time spent to preserve our oceans and all the wildlife that makes this world a beautiful place. I enjoy following them, their photos and stories. GREAT ORGANIZATION!!

The work ODA does to clean our oceans and protect marine life is invaluable and has my support. The time and dedication of the team makes a difference for all.

I have participated in four of Ocean Defenders Alliance events in Kona, Hawaii. Events are well organized, efficient and seem to target areas of high need (with lots of marine debris). While I regularly collect marine debris while diving for fun, these organized events are an efficient way of making a real difference in a specific place in terms of marine debris. Kurt and his crew have been a pleasure to work with.

ODA is AUTHENTIC. Their team has a genuine care for their mission and they put their values as a non-profit above everything else. I’m excited to continue following their journey as they continue making a difference.

I have been on several underwater cleanup events with this nonprofit. Each event was well run, safe, and well briefed as to what was going to happen underwater. I look forward to their next event.

Ocean Defenders Alliance (ODA) sponsors a monthly cleanup dive in Honolulu, Hawaii. ODA takes volunteer divers to different locations to clean up abandoned fishing line, lead weights, and any other trash that is found. It is well organized and a fantastic experience.

We are proud supporters of this fine organization. ODA donates both time and resources to being on the front lines of all ocean clean-up days here in Hawaii. They lead a growing group of volunteers who dive deep, dig down, and relentlessly remove debris that is damaging to both the undersea environment and the marine life that can only flourish in clean waters. They are personally invested in the success of each operation and passionate about their commitment to save the coral and preserve the delicate balance of life below the surface of our seas. Come join this dedicated effort and discover the exhilarating feeling of doing good!
David & Lucy Staples, Big Island, Hawaii

ODA is a group of passionate people giving of their time and heart for the good of our planet, the living things in our oceans, and the benefit of all of us who want to enjoy co-habiting this world and our ocean with the wildlife that live there.
I follow this non-profit and their progress, and they make a difference every week. Donations are money well spent, and it’s groups like this that change the world, one reef, one beach at at time.

I have witnessed in person how dedicated ODA is to well being and conservation of our oceans and natural environment. The world needs more courageous, caring people like these volunteers that work so wholeheartedly in efforts to help clean Mother Earth and help it’s creatures . Bravo ODA, god bless you all!

Ocean Defenders Alliance is more than a great cause, they also use their donations as effectively as any ocean conservation organization I have personally given to.

The awareness and education they spread about debris in our ocean and human impact on the environment is amazing but their volunteers also have the most amazing tangible impact also. They are out there pulling out debris that harms our marine life and their cleanups have immediate and lasting benefits. Supporting ODA gives me confidence my donations are being used well.

This is such a great mom profit organization. Everyday they go out and retrieve things us humans have left or gotten into The Ocean. Plastics,gillnets,fishing line and equipment,etc. This is a great group of people caring for our Oceans so our next generation can have the same Ocean experience that we have the privilege to be able to enjoy. I am so proud of what they have accomplished so far. Much respect to all of you

I have done several cleanup dives with ODA Hawaii, as well as beach cleanups when surf conditions aren't favorable. They are conscientious and dedicated people who simply want beautiful clean oceans for wildlife and people alike.

Ocean Defenders is a great charity. Each trip they make into the Pacific Ocean they retrieve thousands of pounds of abandoned fishing equipment which is a danger to all marine life.

These guys arenot just helping the earth when they are at ocean. They are teaches outside and doing what they know will help the earth by reusing, recycling and watching on what laundry detergents you use. I say this because my father in law is proud member of the ODA!!

ODA is a great organization! Very well run, dedicated, highly focused, and efficient. I volunteer on the underwater cleanups, and in the time I've been involved we've removed tons of dangerous underwater debis that would have otherwise killed marine life

Continues to regularly sponsor ocean clean-ups removing fishing gear and other man-made trash at heavily used sites with large amounts of debris.

ODA has a unique mission to clean up our coastal waters saving coral, fish and other marine life. What they do is so important to the preservation of our oceans!

What a difference ODA is making for our oceans! Thankful for their efforts!

My brother and sister-in-law both volunteer for this amazing organization. Every time they pull nets or hooks or garbage out of the ocean in Hawaii I give a little cheer from Wisconsin! I love the ocean and sea turtles and snorkeling, and I am so thankful for what ODA does!

This is an amazing non-profit filled with volunteers who are passionate about making sure our oceans are clean and that the sea life there is protected as best they can. They are committed and make sacrifice out of their personal lives to do all they can to perpetuate the beauty and condition of the oceans around us.

I have seen several videos of people finding whales dying slowly from fishing nets wrapped around their bodies. People do all they can to cut the nets off and free the whale and it is OBVIOUS that the whales are in joyful gratitude of this help - proving that they are sentient beings. I have seen dead whales with stomachs full of plastic that killed them. You have seen just as many photos of sea animals suffering from human trash. These situations are murder by neglect. It is no different from seeing any living innocent being tortured.
Ocean Defenders Alliance CARES and is doing what they can to clean up this situation. If I weren't old with poor health I would be right there with them. They save my sanity. These are true heroes.

I've been involved with ODA since the beginning (almost 20 years!) and have seen the dedication of the crews to get as much marine debris out of the coastal waters as possible. I think every shoreline needs ODA!

The roll Ocean Defenders plays in our environment is of utmost importance for our creatures of the sea, and the polluting of our oceans. Kudos to the team for their hard work and dedication.

this is one of the few great truly grassroots organizations that does what they say and puts their money where their mouth is! Its no-frills operation means that your $ goes straight to what ODA is all about: clearing dangerous and deadly debris from our oceans to protect our precious sea creatures, and even us humans too! I have had the privilege of seeing first hand some of the volunteer crews in action with Kurt Lieber, the founder, and I have never seen more hard-working and dedicated people!

ODA has been an integral part of cleaning up the oceans in the Huntington Beach and Channel Islands area of So. Cal for a long time! They are a passionate, skilled and educated group that uses their donations wisely and effectively! Living in HI, I am excited that there are now clean-ups happening here in the islands (Oahu and Big Island). Volunteer if you have the time...you'll be working with a dedicated group of professionals while really making a difference to marine wildlife and ocean health.

I add been shore diving with some of the ODA volunteers for quite some time. We always brought our game bags with us to collect any trash we would find. I was invited to come along to help remove abandoned lobster traps and met Kurt and his crew. I was hooked, this was a great group of volunteers who were doing something to help clean up the ocean and save animals from being trapped or caught in the lines left behind. I do hope more people will join ODA and give some of their time or donations to this wonderful cause.
Signed Bluesteal OML & ODA diver

ODA is the absolute best. The people are so kind and just care about protecting ocean life and keeping it clean. They are professional and concomitant and over all on top of it. The clean up dives are a privileged to be a part of. NO ONE BETTER

Fantastic people doing amazing work. ODA is making a real difference in our oceans.

I had an absolutely wonderful experience with Ocean Defenders Alliance! I went out with them off of Kona, Hawaii. We ended up spending over an hour diving the harbor pulling up tires, wires, saws, carpet patches, you name it! Their enthusiasm every time we brought something new up off of the bottom was infectious! They were right there with us helping to haul the big stuff on to the boat. I can’t wait to go out with Kurt and ODA again!

Our organization has been working with Ocean Defenders Alliance and their founder Kurt Lieber for many years. They do outstanding work and are true heroes of our marine environment. We look forward to working together for many more years as we try to make our planet a better place.

Respectfully,
Ray Hollowell
Founder-Sea Inspiration

We love ODA!!! Plastic Ocean Project, Inc and ODA have collaborated over the past 10 years creating an East Coast/West Coast action team!

Dedication of staff, volunteers and donors associated with Ocean Defenders Alliance is something to behold. Their day-in and day-out devotion to the well being of plant and animal sea life is limitless. They think and do, as we all should think and do. The beauty beneath the surface of our oceans, are impacted by ODAs "code blue" mentality for clean-up action that restores, protects and preserves.
As a midwest elementary school science classmate of Kurt Leiber, founder of ODA, I'm proud to say I know that man. ODA is an awesome organization, a gift, that benefits everyone of us.

I've been involved supporting ODA for well over a decade now. Kurt Lieber, the founder, is a phenomenal hero for our oceans. The largest impact has been around removal of hundreds (could probably thousands) of lobster traps and trap lines here in our local waters of Southern California. The fruits of these efforts are not easily seen to the masses living on land adjacent to these waters. Kurt and his volunteer supporters including divers, deck hands and people behind the scenes, work countless hours to make this all happen. It is a fabulous organization and I will continue to support it for years to come.

I first met Kurt Lieber while working for another nonprofit marine conservation organization. I became a financial supporter of ODA after learning more about its mission and success in removing marine debris: a lot of bang for little buck. I contacted ODA about working with a separate organization, For the Oceans Foundation in Costa Rica, to pursue a campaign to collect and repurpose plastic debris from rivers and the ocean and to prevent it from reaching these waterways through better waste management systems. Kurt and his dedicated team had the necessary expertise, knowledge, experience, and contacts for this project based on their many years of success off the coast of California. The hope is to use ODA’s work as a model for other coastal communities interested in tackling the same issues with equally good results.

Kurt Lieber and the Ocean Defenders Alliance do a terrific job of helping clean up our ocean. They exists on donation and the work they do benefits all of us. Kurt spoke at our local yacht club and inspired all of us.

I was introduced to Kurt and Ocean Defenders Alliance two years ago. His knowledge and commitment on the health of our oceans and it's inhabitants is boundless. I am honored to be among his many supporters and applaud his efforts and expertise. Equipment and man power is a constant need to support ODA's efforts. I urge everyone to donate their skills and funds whenever and however possible.

Patti Mitchell, President
Sea Inspiration
Honolulu, HI

Thank you Ocean Defenders Alliance for the difficult and dangerous work you do to keep our ocean safe and healthy! As a diver and marine life lover, I am always grateful to hear about your progress in the seemingly never-ending task of cleaning debris from our sea. And the voiceless marine creatures you protect undoubtedly smile when they see you coming. Keep up the good work.

Ocean Defenders Alliance is the epitome of what a grassroots organization can do for our polluted /dying oceans. They do not succumb to the death knoll but go out there and retrieve one trap, one net, one line at a time and carry on. They have saved myriad marine creatures from starvation, entrapment and death and lessened the pollution and other causation of climate change, our greatest global crisis.
They are not only out there on the ocean, but in the classrooms, beaches and social media, educating the public on the threatening status of the oceans and what can be done.

All this under the passionate leadership of Captain Kurt Lieber and the volunteer scuba divers and crew who routinely risk their lives for this cause.

I first heard Kurt Lieber speak in September of 2016, and his photos of the Ghost Gear the ODA retrieved from the ocean woke me up to the severity of the problem. It was some comfort to learn of the dedication of Lieber's volunteers in their vigilance and pursuit of the unholy traps that still lay undersea to maim and kill wildlife.

I have been volunteering with ODA in one way or another since the early days when we were just trying to get a boat (that floats) into the water. It has been blood sweat and tears but triumphs too! And oh those triumphs are so sweet. To see a huge chunk of net, a length of line or a trap come from the deep blue onto our deck and then be removed from the ocean to keep that abandoned gear from killing more sea life, wow, it's so very satisfying.

While volunteering with ODA, at the end of the day(s) you can see the results. Whether it is fixing a computer system, repairing a generator or bilge pump, putting a new paint job on the boat or that sweet sense of victory as the deadly gear is ripped from the sea never to kill again, ODA is where it is for me.

I met Kurt volunteering for another ocean oriented non profit. At that organization it felt like half the effort was spent working around egos and navigating a maze of crazy interpersonal relations. That is NOT the case at ODA. At ODA IT'S ALL ABOUT THE MISSION. I meet other engineers, divers and volunteers that are mission focused and results oriented. I have volunteered at animal shelters, wild life rescue centers and teach ins for people wanting to learn math science and language skills. I found all those experiences rewarding. But my time with ODA has let me put my skills to the test and helped me grow and improve my skill set while helping the environment.

Come on board and dive in to make a difference with ODA. You'll be glad you did!

And if you want to support our efforts without the risk of sea sickness by making a donation, I can personally assure you that your money goes in the tank, in the boat and into the mission. We don't have a big or well paid staff. I support with an automatic donation each month. It's that important to me. I don't have a lot to give, but I put my money where my wrench turns, my soldering iron solders and my computing skills get used. I hope you will too.

John Milligan

Ocean Defender Alliance has made me more aware of the detrimental impact that marina debris has on the environment. Perhaps more importantly they have shownthat local action can have a positive effect. Their volunteers work tirelessly to improve the oceans. The leader Kurt Lieber is there (hands on) to educate and encourage both his volunteers and the public.

I spent the weekend with ODA a few years ago on Catalina Island and was very impressed by the level of dedication and professionalism they bring to necessary ocean cleanup efforts. I adore and wholeheartedly support their mission.

ODA does a GREAT job keeping our oceans clean and safe for the wildlife!!

I spent a day on an ODA boat to help collect trash from the ocean when I lived in Los Angeles. The group was highly organized and meticulous about safety for the divers and those on the boat. What struck me was their selfless dedication to this cause--they are always seeking ways to improve with technology, be it with drones or cleaner engines on their boats. They are filling a neglected niche in the bigger picture and are bravely going forward despite the difficulties of locating abandoned underwater traps, gear, and other hazards. I was moved by their dedication to ocean life.

I am so impressed with the wonderful work that Ocean Defenders Alliance does to clean dangerous debris from the ocean, and they do it on a limited budget with lots of volunteers. They also educate many people both locally and around the country about the problem.

The Ocean Defenders Alliance is an amazing organization. With a cadre of able volunteers and a selfless leader, we are involved in removing discarded fishing gear, lost lobster and crab pots and other debris from the ocean.

Frequent presentations to local groups, schools and other organizations help to get the ODA message out to the general public and reinforce the need for an involved populace in keeping our oceans safe and debris free.

They are very local right in Huntington Beach and are very organized but very close to home.
Not too centralized, or big.

ODA is the only group I know of directly removing dangerous and deadly fishing debris from our coastal waters. This organization needs more funding and more chapters - every major city in the world should have one!

Ocean Defender's Alliance Is simply the best. As a Naturalist for the American Cetacean Society, Marine Biology Teacher, and a new member of their crew, I can speak from experience. Kurt Lieber has a passion that is infectious. We see whale entanglements off our Southern California Coast several times a year. We participate in several beach clean ups. But what happens when the gear is abandoned/lost in the ocean? How do we protect our whales, sea lions, sharks and other marine life then? Enter ODA. Who knows how many animals have lived as a direct result of the gear and lines being found and pulled from the sea before the entanglement occurs. I can't speak highly enough about Kurt and all of the volunteers that are the force behind this organization.

We are so grateful for Ocean Defenders Alliance! They are the real deal unlike some of the other ocean charities we have seen over the years, not to say there are not other good ones to. ODA actually gets out there and makes a difference to the creatures in the ocean rather than just talking about why it should be done. They suit up and show up and they care. They have gotten thousands of ghost net left behind from derelict fishermen, and they have saved countess dolphins, seals, fish, turtles, name it! The Healey's

This group is passionate about removing debris from the ocean to make it a safer environment for everyone (ocean animals and humans)! Kurt is constantly making an effort to expand the organization's work and share his results to benefit ocean resource managers and better inform the public.

They are very focused and skilled in what they do. I was personally thanked when I contributed. I think what they are doing is very special, and very effective.

I have known of ODA since they were founded about 17 years ago, and I have been pleased to see what they have been able to accomplish on a modest budget. Founder Kurt Lieber has been tenacious in organizing expeditions to haul out deadly ghost gear and tons of trash.

Ocean Defenders Alliance is a wonderful small grassroots nonprofit working to clean up the bay in Southern California. We need more small groups that care about clean water, safe places to dive. They also are committed to cleaning up old nets that tangle fish, old fishing line, lobster pots left behind, and much more. Please check them out and always support your small local grassroots nonprofits.

Ocean Defenders Alliance does some extraordinary work. Where others regard the ocean as a dumping ground and a place to throw stuff away, ODA dives in the Pacific to pick up the cast away stuff like nets and traps and other stuff. Countless marine life has been saved by ODA where they would get entangled in line and ropes, ODA takes it out of the ocean and discards it safely. ODA is one of the few organizations who does the diving and retrieval work. It's difficult and hard work and even dangerous at times where long lines can entangle a diver. ODA has done this work for many years - and now, they are building up their operation so that they can do even more. They deserve our support.

I have been donating money for a number of years and have been amazed how efficiently the money has been utilized. This group with their cadre of dedicated volunteers have been performing amazing environmental work for many years. The amount of underwater lost fishing gear, etc and the effort to retrieve it (often very deep) have been impressive

Ocean Defenders is a great organization that helps and advocates for our most important
asset on Earth, the Ocean and its creatures. All the animals in the ocean and seas are in great danger from a variety of threats, mostly man made. Ocean Defenders has taken on a tremendous role in helping to save our sea animals, clean up the oceans, and also to educate the public about the dangers faced and how to alleviate them, making us all participants in a most important role that is of saving our Oceans and eventually our planet. They are a group of dedicated people who have learned what needs to be done and do it. I applaud them and wish their mission greatest success in educating the public, cleaning the oceans and protecting the animals that call the Oceans their home.

Ocean Defenders Alliance is tackling an overwhelming and very important task of removing debris from our oceans. This benefits all of the earth’s creatures, sea, land and air. And, when I submitted a question on their website I was contacted directly by the organizations founder and executive director almost immediately. Now that is an organization worth supporting.

I love that the Ocean Defenders Alliance helps to clean our ocean as much as possible! It is so important to have a healthy and clean ocean since it is 99% percent of the living space on this planet. It is great to work with such professional and passionate people and I am so glad that I can be a part of it. Keep up the good work!

ODA began as a longed for dream by my friend Kurt Liber to save marine wildlife. An old dilapidated boat was donated after we looked at a lot of "turkey boats" that were in our price range. Several would have been perfect for the final "boat blows up scene" in a movie. We worked on the boat for 3 years and 4 months in my driveway before it was seaworthy. From there ODA has become a global model of how to go about accomplishing one's dreams of cleaning up the oceans and creating focused public awareness regarding the challenges and solutions of wildlife rescue and ocean cleanup. Any resource donated to this organization is used in a honed efficient manner to solve the problem at hand. It's always "All Hands On Deck" at ODA. I am proud to have served as a volunteer and co founder.

Getting fishing gear out of the water is one of the most direct ways to save ocean wildlife. Thanks to Ocean Defenders Alliance, it's happening. Plus, having extra eyes on and in the ocean helps identify issues - like too many fishing pots too close together - that gives inside info to the conservation movement.

I've helped ODA clean up LA Harbor. It is a selfless group doing great work to help our local environment. Thanks ODA.

I have helped ODA for years and cant think of a better way to directly impact the global environment via local direct action! Every dollar spent by ODA is applied completely to the removal of man made trash from our ocean. The change starts here!

Doing a part to clean up marine habitat. We put it there, we should clean it up.

ODA is an amazing organization. Truly a non-profit, existing with many volunteers who dive, maintain the ODA boat, and spread the word about our mission.

The hard work of the Ocean Defenders Alliance continues to make a big difference for the local marine ecosystems where they operate. Having watched them grow over the past several years, we're proud to have them as part of the Sylvia Earle Alliance / Mission Blue family.

ODA is a group of highly dedicated, experienced individuals working toward a common goal. They are industrious and creative and the work they do is essential!

ODA is everything an organization should be: passionate, resourceful, reliable, frugal & always ready & able to help their cause. ODA rids the ocean of harmful abandoned fishing gear & anything else they find under the sea that's wreaking havoc, from car batteries to microwaves to nets and gear, they clean it up so the animals are safe and healthy. ODA is the best!

FANTASTIC organization, selfless and dedicated volunteers. I have helped on a few of their harbor cleanups and it is wonderful to see these altruistic people hauling leaky & destructive garbage out of the ocean waters.

ODA is in Hawaii! Great to have them here and cleaning up our ocean for the Marine life as well as keeping the debris from getting on our beaches.
I don't dive but as a land and water photographer, I have documented them in action.

Amazing non profit that is doing wonderful things to rid our oceans of marine debris!

I started donating when a great guy suddenly died. This was the organization that was recommended in memory of him. He had volunteered along with his brother so when birthday, anniversary date comes, holidays I donate in memory of him. What this organization does to try to get OUR ocean clean is so amazing. My bucket list includes actually visiting this place and maybe getting my hands wet in OUR ocean. Thank you Kurt for all you do, the time you put into this for everyone and animal in the ocean.

Ocean Defenders is a great non-profit advocate for the care of our oceans and its animals. When not on the ocean clearing ghost nets and debris, they are actively participating in outreach programs to the next generation of ocean protectors.

Ocean Defenders Alliance is a excellent protector of ocean wildlife. ODA has been very helpful in the fight against deadly driftnets that unnecessarily kill ocean wildlife like sea turtles, whales, dolphins and many other species.

Thank you so much for all the hard work you do keeping our oceans clean and sea life safe! ODA is one of the best local organizations and their services are valuable beyond measure!

What's not to like about this. They are removing ghost gear from the ocean that we have contributed to. Thank you. Soon we should have a clean ocean for our future generations! Would be great if a couple billion dollars went to this cause and governments took action on proper waste management.

ODA is amazing; they donate their time and talents to clearing the ocean waters of deadly debris! My daughter and I have volunteered with them numerous times over the past few years and every time we do we walk away filled with inspiration and optimism. We are so grateful to ODA for the work they do!

I have been on board while abandoned traps and nets have come over the rail. I have been in the water and tied lift bags to derilict nets and traps. I have witnessed the ODA in action, and it makes me very proud to tell anyone how our mother ocean is better off with them around.

An amazingly compassionate organization! I am so excited the angels have brought your wisdom to my path. Thank you.

I am really glad that you are literally doing the dirty work that needs to be done,..unfortunately for most,..it's a case of "out of sight out of mind",..they can't see beneath the ocean's surface and don't realize the problem that you are correcting.

The work that Ocean Defenders Alliance does is invaluable. Our oceans are the lifeblood of the entire planet and if they're unhealthy, we all suffer. I feel especially good about donating to ODA because of the conscientious way that donated funds are managed. I know my donation will be put to work and won't be used to line administrators' pockets.

ODA are a boatload of angels for our oceans!!! Humans haven't given much respect to the watery heart of our planet, using it as a garbage pit with an "outta sight, outta mind" attitude. ODA is changing that cleaning up one murderous net, trap and leaky battery at a time. They're physically out there making a difference, cleaning up the human mess. More than that, they are educators, sharing what they see under the ocean surface to bring awareness to the masses. They would get 100 stars from me if that were an option.

      10/09/2015

What an amazing experience! I volunteered as crew on the LegaSea and we cleaned up a bunch of debris in Long Beach. We had dolphins swimming around the boat and a baby sea lion came by to play with the divers. 
The rest of the team were awesome, from the super hero tech divers to the Captain to Kurt the Director of the program. I cant wait to go out with them again!

What an amazing experience! I volunteered as crew on the LegaSea and we cleaned up a bunch of debris in Long Beach. We had dolphins swimming around the boat and a baby sea lion came by to play with the divers.
The rest of the team were awesome, from the super hero tech divers to the Captain to Kurt the Director of the program. I cant wait to go out with them again!

ODA does great work cleaning old debris from the oceans helping to save marine life.

The work ODA does to keep the ocean clean and safe for marine life is truly amazing.

Such an amazing group! They do so much to help and preserve our sealife.

My daughter has been volunteering since she was 12 yrs old, and she loves ODA. Kurt and his crew do wonderful and amazing things for our ocean. I love my time helping clean up as often as we can! Thanks ODA!!!

ODA is the best. I am so impressed with the work Ocean Defenders Alliance is doing . ODA is cleaning up our ocean and saving the lives of countless marine wildlife . In bringing awareness and education to the public ODA is providing all with food for thought in how we can play a role in helping to improve our environment.

Ocean Defenders Alliance has a logical and focused approach to cleaning the ocean, which will help future generations of sea life and humans.
Tony

ODA is dedicated and hands on when it comes to removing ghost fishing gear from our local waters. They also do harbor clean ups with middle school kids--passing on the passion to the next generation. I really do enjoy volunteering with Captain Kurt and the rest of the ODA crew. We get dirty, work hard, and have a great time.

We wrote a whole book with the top ocean experts from around the world called Sea Voices, and we can honestly say that Ocean Defenders Alliance is one of the most incredible organizations we have come across. They do their important work like removing debris from the ocean for one reason only ~ because they care! They do not do it to get attention from the media like some organizations, and they don't do it to line their own pockets! They are the real deal and the ocean is a better place because of ODA and they are also supportive of other organizations that help the ocean, they are non-competitive when it comes to who helps. Elizabeth & Duffy Healey

I have worked for many different volunteer orangizations. Ocean Defenders Alliance (ODA) has been, by far, the most rewarding and positive experience I have had. Not only is the volunteer work worthwhile, you can see the results of your efforts first hand, knowing that you have helped the oceans, living things of every make and model, and our world as a whole. Add to that the enthusiasm and passion of its founder Kurt Lieber and you have a recipe for something greater than its parts. There is not enough time or money to immediately undo all of the damage mankind has contributed to our planet. But, every little bit helps and we all have to start somewhere if we are going to make a difference. ODA makes a difference and is part of the change for the better.

From everything I have seen, this organization has passion and integrity, two essential ingredients for every non-profit organization.

I needed to volunteer with a non profit group as a "check off box" for my volunteer commitment to achieve my black belt in karate. Once I started working with Kurt Lieber and his organization I saw how committed they were to defending our ocean resources, and I became a life-long fan. It is a professional organization and is the epitome of what my instructor says about thinking globally but acting locally. Recovering the abandoned nets have made a significant impact on the ocean wildlife.

I have had the good luck to discover the Ocean Defender Alliance and the good sense to join them. Nothing but positive interactions with Kurt and the people who assist him in making the seas a better safer place. I have been welcomed and appreciate for contributions of my time an expertise whether they be large or small. I just completed a recovery event and wished we could have stayed longer. Now that I am back on shore I await to email for the next outing.

ODA is one of the most important organizations I am aware of that is doing hands on, pulling out the garbage cleanup of our oceans. I am happy to support them in my own small ways. The news they share about our oceans is informative and crucial to understanding the impact each individual can have - for positive or negative - on the health of our planet. Only with education can we hope to change the current path of destruction our planet is on. ODA makes good decisions and does amazing, planet saving work with the budget they have; all while educating supporters about why it is important for them to do what they do. I have designated them my charity of choice for donations when I shop online.

I support Ocean Defenders Alliance! What most impresses me is that ODA is the only organization that I belong to that is the real deal. ODA is 100% hands-on direct action. I live near the ocean in Orange County, California so I see first- hand how hard our expanding human population can be on the health of the ocean and its marine ecosystems. Ocean Defenders uses its resources to pick up ghost netting, abandoned lobster traps, carelessly tossed fishing line and trash. Our oceans are gasping for breath. Ocean Defenders reminds me of a giant oceanic activist action figure. I am forever grateful for ODA's direct, first aid to the Pacific Ocean.

Volunteering for ODA has been truly inspiring. The people involved are incredibly gifted in general and, more specifically, all are devoted to the ocean and to the planet. Kurt Lieber runs the best ship humanly possible. His knowledge of all facets, his concentration, his intuitive ability to know what's needed and to never put anyone in jeopardy all add up to incredibly successful and rewarding days on the sea. I revel in the accomplishments and in the spirit of comradery that abounds at ODA. This organization is top notch.

A truly excellent organization!

I have worked with nearly 40 nonprofit organizations in various capacities over the last 26 years, and have known the Founder and President of ODA for more than 22 years.

Without hesitation, I consider Ocean Defenders Alliance to be among the best there is. Grassroots, effective, focused, and operating with integrity.

Please help me support them!

ODA is an amazing marine conservation organization that cleans the underwater ecosystem in Southern California year after year. It is managed with an eye toward leveraging donor funds for maximum impact. Untold numbers of marine animals have been saved by their efforts. If you care about the ocean and the future of our planet please consider supporting ODA.

ODA your clean up and caring for our seas here in Orange County have helped protect our sea life from perishing from Ghost Traps left behind as well as debris that is left on top of the ocean that can also cause harm and death to our sea life. You are the Angels of Our Seas and I have been on the boat first hand and worked closely with President Kurt Leiber to witness ODA's amazing efforts and caring for our Orange County Seas which greatly effects our comunities and lives. The seas survive...we survive. Many thanks to ODA and please help to support this wonderful non profit organization.

No one in Southern California makes our coastal waters safer for marine wildlife by reducing dangerous man-made marine debris from vital habitat than ODA. Focusing on the professional removal of abandoned & derelict commercial fishing gear that poses serious threats to numerous species. In the process, ODA carefully liberates live wildlife found trapped in nets and pots that needlessly continue to capture and kill long after being lost by the fishing industry.