ecology: the branch of biology that deals with the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings

Eco-Connections: Plastics in Tampa Bay (A Special Session in Partnership with Eckerd College)
Saturday, March 23, 2024
11 AM - 1 PM at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

For this special session of Eco Connections, Eckerd College professors Shannon Gowans and Amy Siuda will join us to share about their work to study microplastics and educate the community about the impacts of plastic pollution. Learn about microplastics in Tampa Bay and common pathways for plastics to enter the estuary. Participants will identify plastics in plain sight and discuss our local waste management system. We will also share actions to reduce the harmful effects of plastic pollution on human health and the environment. Click here to register.

Session 1: Water Quality – Challenges and Solutions
Location: Boat-based aboard Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center’s eco-vessel

Board the eco-vessel Discovery for an introduction to Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Watch, and ecology. Then we’ll dive into water quality on the water – what causes water quality problems, how water quality impacts humans and animals, research and solutions. You’ll hear about locally relevant issues such as harmful algal blooms, plastic pollution, industrial and mercury contamination, and more. 

During this boat trip, participants will assist with data collection for a hands-on citizen science project that helps scientists understand how animal populations are affected by water quality changes and events. Discovery Center educators will also conduct a plankton tow and share findings under a microscope. The harmful algal cells, microorganisms,  plastic particles, and other ecosystem components we find will offer a unique peek into the current health of Tampa Bay!

Session 2: Giving Back to the Bay
Location: Lassing Park

Tampa Bay gives us so many opportunities to enjoy life by the water. Giving back to the bay is a great way to feel connected to our natural surroundings while ensuring that future generations can also enjoy them. Participants in this session will spend part of the day with members of Tampa Bay Watch’s very own restoration team, who will lead a field trip to Lassing Park. We’ll visit a recent Living Shoreline installation and have the option to get our feet wet while hearing about why and how these volunteer-supported projects benefit humans, our local ecosystem, and the global ocean. 

You’ll discover what happens behind the scenes to plan, coordinate, and fund a Living Shoreline, find out why our water quality depends on healthy habitats, and build a vertical oyster garden to take home or donate for installation on a local dock. This is an active program, so wear comfortable clothing and prepare to get your shoes muddy, if you’d like! 

Session 3: Invasion in the Bay
Location: Discovery Center Classroom

During this session, participants are invited into the Discovery Center’s state of the art classroom to learn from our educators. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes peek into the complex world of invasive species – how they arrived here, how they impact the local ecosystem, and what Tampa Bay Watch and other organizations are doing to solve the problem. 

You’ll be guided through a lionfish dissection, meet invasive animal ambassadors (perhaps our cane toads, Willy and Wonka, will make an appearance), and practice using citizen science tools. Participants will also have a chance to sample an invasive lionfish snack. Expect to leave this program with new knowledge and skills that will help you advocate for smarter management of invasive species in and around Tampa Bay.