This week’s TruBeach Spotlight Profile is on Tampa Bay Watch. Melanie Grillone was kind enough to answer some of our questions.
Can you tell us a bit about Tampa Bay Watch and what it is you do?
Tampa Bay Watch educates the public about the importance of healthy estuaries through restoration and education programs. Our education programs provide hands on learning opportunities to Tampa Bay area students so they can have meaningful experiences to connect them to our estuary. Our restoration programs involve engaging the community directly in habitat restoration projects that provide enhanced habitat, water quality improvements, and erosion control measures. Through these programs, we hope to develop stewardship in Bay area citizens that will encourage them to act responsibly and protect our natural environment.
In my role as the GIS/Environmental Specialist, I’m responsible for the management and creation of all GIS data and restoration maps, along with the organization of several marine debris programs. As part of our restoration team, I have the unique opportunity to lend a hand in all restoration projects throughout the year – so I’ll see you out at the next event!
Marine debris is a very serious problem and I see that you have a program in place. How does it work?
We have several programs at Tampa Bay Watch that work to combat marine debris in our environment: Monofilament collection and recycling, derelict crab trap removals, stormwater placard placement and Watergoat debris removal, and coastal cleanups. All programs vary in the level of involvement needed from the community. Monofilament collection tubes are adopted out and emptied on a monthly basis, we host 3 large-scale cleanups every March, July, and September, and derelict crab trap removals occur twice a year. Our main goal is to remove and properly dispose of the high volumes of human-generated debris, so we love to have more people jump in to join us for marine debris removal efforts!
Florida brings visions of pristine beaches and blue-green water. What do you see locally in terms of ocean pollution?
Ocean pollution can occur in many forms and we sadly see it all! Pollution sources can include: stormwater runoff, fertilizer and pesticides, fishing gear, microplastics which can range from small threads released from our clothing to tiny plastic beads in cosmetics, and the one that really makes me cringe, single-use plastics like water bottles and Styrofoam food containers. These are just a few pollutants that are key to target and reduce now, to improve our landscapes and waterways for the future! It’s not too late if we work together to educate about the impacts and address these issues in our own communities by taking baby steps in our own homes. Reducing ocean pollution is crucial, not only for our economy and protecting human health standards, but also for the conservation of all the fascinating wildlife species that call Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico their home!
How important are partnerships and education in ocean conservation? Can you tell us a bit about your Estuary Education program for youth?
Conservation is the responsibility of everyone. Collaborative efforts of individuals and organizations with this shared vision have a greater capacity to make a big difference. Furthermore, the future of our planet relies on our youth. Education efforts provide a fundamental understanding of the natural world. This knowledge equips learners with literacy, skills, motivation, and responsibility to address complex environmental issues.
Our Estuary EDventures programs aim to educate local students about the Tampa Bay ecosystem. Students are exposed to the wonders of our natural world through hands-on marine science programs and immersion into the Tampa Bay’s estuary. Education programs empower and encourage students to act as environmental stewards of Tampa Bay’s important and unique natural resources. Our Estuary EDventures field trips and summer camps see around 3,500 students annually.
How can someone get involved in Tampa Bay Watch and are there different levels of involvement?
There are many ways for citizens in the community to join our Tampa Bay Watch team. All projects and volunteer opportunities have different requirements so the best way to stay informed would be to sign up for our weekly email blast or remember to check in with our volunteer page for a full description.