Clean Ocean Action ("COA") is a leading national and regional voice working to protect the ocean and waterways using science, law, research, education and citizen action. COA is a broad-based coalition of active boating, business, community, conservation, diving, environmental, fishing, religious, service, student, surfing and women's groups. These "Ocean Wave-makers" work to clean up and protect the waters of New Jersey and New York. The groups came together in 1984 to investigate sources, effects, and solutions of ocean pollution. COA is a 501(c)3 tax exempt nonprofit organization.