Aimee Finley and Dianna Schulte with Project Advisors: Michael Bessert, James Handley, and the University of Wisconsin Stout

Acknowledgements:Blue Ocean Society

Contamination and pollution of the world’s oceans by plastics and other synthetic, non-biodegradable materials (known as ‘marine debris’) is an ever-increasing phenomenon. (Gregory, Murray R.) (Figure 4-5).Since 2001, we have been tracking marine debris on the Gulf of Maine coastline. Data collected informs us about trends in marine pollution, what types of debris are most prevalent, if debris is increasing or decreasing, and where the debris is originating (i.e. ocean or land). Monitoring floating debris allows us to determine the best methods to lower the impact of these pollutants on wildlife .We can use this information to develop outreach and educational programs to help prevent pollution in the future. In the Gulf of Maine a significant area of wind-driven coastal upwelling occurs off of Jeffery's Ledge. Here, we investigated the spatial dynamics of various whale species to assess (i) feeding habits, and (ii) how these mammals are affected by anthropogenic objects. Spatial dynamics were analyzed in ArcGIS. We hypothesize a strong association between these prominent marine taxa and marine debris. Research in May-October from 2003-2005 shows balloons and plastic bags being the top two items found. Plastic bottles, paper, and unknown plastic items were also found in large numbers which may take decades to degrade (Table 1). Sourcing items is difficult, as they could come either from boats or drift out from shore.

Our research focuses primarily on and around Jeffrey's Ledge, a prominent area in the Gulf of Maine and a popular fishing and whale watching spot.

• Collected observational data on marine mammals from whale watch boats

• Photographed and recorded distinguishing characteristics of whales for identification

• Recorded sightings of marine debris (Figures 1-3)

• Used ArcGIS to analyze spatial dynamics

All of these sightings were located with GPS positions and documented for further statistical analysis.

In our study we concentrated on all anthropogenic debris whereas previous research focused strictly on one (e.g. drifting plastic) and its consequences on marine organisms.(Barnes, et.al.) Observations of all marine debris gave us a better understanding of localized concentration of debris at Jeffrey’s Ledge. Prior research done used hydrographic surveys to map debris (NOAA) rather than strict observation, which is a great methodology however, costly. There is still some work being done to analyze the data and final results to detect direct correlation of whale sightings and marine debris. With our findings we will have significant data to confirm the hazards of marine debris on endangered whale species.

Households can eliminate or reduce pollution:

• Limit fertilizer applications, try to use organic fertilizer whenever possible.

• Make sure car and household chemicals are properly stored to reduce runoff and keep runoff clean.

• Dispose of pet wastes properly.

• If you have a septic system, maintain it properly.

Boaters can eliminate or reduce pollution:

• Use nontoxic cleaning products

• Recycle used oil

• Discard worn motor parts into proper receptacles that prevent petroleum spills

• Keep boats well-tuned in order toprevent fuel and lubricant leaks

Figure 4,5. Some of the 200+ pounds of trash collected at a beachcleanups.

Sighted endangered whale species concentrated at Jeffrey’s Ledge were spatially correlated with anthropogenic factors. We are the only organization to collect consistent data on the marine mammals inhabiting Jeffrey’s Ledge and with more statistical analysis we will be able to better protect these endangered animals and further educate people about the dangers of their waste.

Plastic bag Balloon Plastic bottle Paper item Plastic wrapper Plastic item Buoy Can Styrofoam Cup Box 0

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Plastic bag Balloon Paper Plastic bottle Cup Buoy Plastic wrapper Plastic item Aluminum can Plastic jug 0

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Balloon Plastic bag Plastic bottle Paper Foam Cardboard Plastic piece Aluminum Can Wood Buoy 0

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Item Time

Newspaper 6 weeks

Apple Core 2 months

Cotton Rope 1 year

Cigarette butt 1-15 years*

Plastic bag 10-20 years*

Fishing nets 30-40 years

Tin can/ Batteries 100 years*

Aluminum Soda Can 80-200 years*

Plastic bottle 450 years*

Fishing line 600 years*

Glass bottle 1 million years*

INTRODUCTION:

METHODS:

RESULTS:

DISCUSSION:

Whale Community Correlation with Anthropogenic Factorsat Jeffrey's Ledge

Figure 1. Recorded marine debris in 2010

Figure 2. Recorded marine debris in 2009

Figure 3. Recorded marine debris in 2008

Table 1. Time allotted for decomposition of marine debris

Literature Cited:Barnes, D. K. A., and P. Milner. 2005. "Drifting plastic and its consequences for sessile organism dispersal in the Atlantic Ocean." Marine Biology 146.4: 815-825.Gregory, Murray R. 2009. "Environmental implications of plastic debris in marine settings-entanglement, ingestion, smothering, hangers-on, hitch-hiking and alien invasions." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 364.1526: 2013-2025. NOAA. 2007. "Gulf of Mexico marine debris project." Oil Spill Intelligence Report 30.10: 3-4.