title: Characterization of marine debris in North Carolina salt marshes.
abstract: Marine debris composition, density, abundance, and accumulation were evaluated in salt marshes in Carteret County, North Carolina seasonally between 2007 and 2009. We assessed relationships between human use patterns and debris type. Wave effects on marine debris density were examined using a GIS-based forecasting tool. We assessed the influence of site wave exposure, period, and height on debris quantity. Presence and abundance of debris were related to wave exposure, vegetation type and proximity of the strata to human population and human use patterns. Plastic pieces accounted for the majority of all debris. Small debris (0-5 cm) was primarily composed of foam pieces and was frequently affiliated with natural wrack. Large debris (>100 cm) was encountered in all marsh habitat types surveyed and was primarily composed of anthropogenic wood and derelict fishing gear. Marsh cleanup efforts should be targeted to specific habitat types or debris types to minimize further damage to sensitive habitats.
authors: NOAA National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Center for Coastal Fisheries and Habitat Research, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA. shay.viehman@noaa.gov
authors: Shay
authors: S
authors: Viehman
authors: Jenny L
authors: JL
authors: Vander Pluym
authors: Jennifer
authors: J
authors: Schellinger
mesh_terms: D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D004784:Environmental Monitoring; D040362:Geographic Information Systems; D006802:Human Activities; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D009657:North Carolina; D011156:Population Density; D012621:Seasons; D014866:Waste Products / Q000145:classification* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014872:Water Movements; D014873:Water Pollutants / Q000145:classification*; D014876:Water Pollution / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D053833:Wetlands
chemical_list: D014866:Waste Products; D014873:Water Pollutants