Research & Mapping

Habitat Impacts

Marine debris in coastal mangroves — Habitat Impacts

Seagrass Scarring, Reef and Mangrove damage

Wildlife Impacts

Kemp's ridley sea turtle entangled in monofilament — Wildlife Impacts

Ingestion, Entanglement, Entrapment, Invasive Species Transport

Human Impacts

Propeller tangled with fishing line — Human Impacts

Navigational Hazard, Economic Strain, Diving Hazard, Micro-and Nano-plastic ingestion

Marine debris near a sea turtle nest — Resource Impacts

Current Research Priorities

Improve reporting and monitoring of marine debris interactions with wildlife and habitats
Conduct targeted research to evaluate and better understand interactions and impacts of marine debris on wildlife and habitats
Evaluate the economic impacts of, and human dimensions surrounding, marine debris in order to provide data to inform decision making and natural resource management

Mapping

Marine Debris Hot Spots

The natural collection areas identified in this research project represent the potential and/or known marine debris hot spots around Florida. These locations are important for understanding where marine debris accumulates and can aid in both prevention and removal efforts. Natural collection points can also be used during oil spill response to aid in shoreline protection strategies. Marine debris can come from both the land and sea, but identifying areas of accumulation can be difficult when access is limited or restricted.

Marine Debris Hot Spots Map

Natural collection area of marine debris along shoreline

Aerial Imagery Mapping

Initial Assessments

Hurricane Ian

Hurricane Nicole

Derelict Vessel Map

Explore the interactive derelict vessel map using the link below or learn more about the differences between derelict and at-risk vessels.

Derelict Vessel Map