Isles of Shoals Research Project Nets Loads of Trash

October 2, 2011

Shown a 1 x 0.5 meter, 333µ neuston net (provided by Sea Education Association), towed from a spinnaker pole 15 feet off the starboard beam of the vessel at speeds ranging from 1.4 - 2.2 knots. Photo/Rozalia Project.

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The Rozalia Project has just published a report of its 4-day neuston net survey of marine debris conducted off the Isles of Shoals aboard the American Promise. The project was funded and supported by the Bonnell Cove Foundation of the Cruising Club of America.

Eight trawls, each 1 nautical mile in length were completed as shown in this map. Image/Rozalia Project.

The objective of the survey was to identify if marine debris/derelict fishing gear was found in greater densities in the proximity of tidelines and current convergences and if so, in what densities and makeup. This research was conducted by the Rozalia Project as part of a larger ongoing study to come up with marine debris detection and removal methods.

Here are some highlights from the Isles of Shoals study:

Tidelines and current convergences can yield up to:

  • 105,564 pieces of marine debris/nm2
  • 2.25 nautical miles of monofilament, fishing line and rope and net fiber/nm2

These densities of marine debris and monofilament, line, and rope/net fiber were found in areas of upwelling and convergence that are also feeding areas for marine mammals, including Atlantic right whales.

To view the full report:

Rozalia Project Blogspot

For further information:

Rozalia Project

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