RESEARCH

 

  • Map marine plastic accumulation locations along BC’s west coast by reviewing HD aerial imagery to identify coastal habitats containing high concentrations of macro plastics. Ground surveys will be conducted to estimate the amount (mass) of plastic present at the identified locations. Survey results will be graphically displayed on a GIS interface and shared with the stakeholders.

  • Prioritize macro plastic removal locations. The map created (objective #1) will be overlaid with sensitive and important habitats. Clean-up/ removal priority will be given to sensitive habitats containing species susceptible to plastic contamination and deemed important for ecological health will be prioritized (i.e. Intertidal shellfish beds, estuaries etc.).

  • Determine the rate of plastic accumulation on priority beaches. Ground surveys on priority beaches will occur annually post removal and an accumulation rate will be calculated. The Rugged Coast Research Society will partner with interested stakeholders to implement annual accumulation assessments.

 

Mapping and assessment.

  • Survey.

    To date, RCRS has surveyed approximately 80% of the west coast of Vancouver Island and collected data on marine debris distribution and high accumulation areas.

  • Implement.

    By identifying high accumulation areas, we have been able to plan and execute clean-up and restoration efforts on the most heavily impacted areas of our coastline.

  • Expand.

    We have over 2000 marine debris locations mapped throughout the West Coast, ensuring that future clean-up efforts are as targeted and effective as possible.

2023 MOVING FORWARD

With our current capacity we are building proposals for the following research centred projects:

  • Marine Suspended Micro Plastic Accumulation and Biological Concentration

  • Remote Marine Ecology Research Facility at Hesquiaht Peninsula

  • Marine Expanded Polystyrene Marine Distribution Assessment and Alternative Feasibility Assessment

  • West Coast Marine Sensitive Habitat (Salmon Bearing Estuaries) Hazardous Material Assessment/ Mapping

  • "Ghost Gear" (Fishing Industry Debris) Accumulation Assessment and removals

  • Marine Debris Accumulation Assessment/ Mapping (BC Coast) - Continued

Restore