Project Objectives
Objectives:
Objectives:
To assess temporal and spatial trends in the microplastic concentration in surface waters.
To identify microplastic accumulation zones in Tampa Bay
To examine seasonal, or weather-related, effects on the quantification of microplastics
To assess yearly decreases or increases in microplastics concentrations.
To assess spatial trends in microplastic concentration in sediments
To identify sediment accumulation zones
To assess the microplastic concentrations in effluent from local wastewater treatment facilities
To assess the microplastic load in small and large grazers (copepod & manatees)
Long-Term Goal:
Long-Term Goal:
Establish a sustainable microplastics monitoring program for Tampa Bay