- SeaKeepers' Vessel DISCOVERY II
Investigating Industrial Stormwater Pollution in the Miami River
- April 13, 2026
- Miami, Florida
Project Overview
Miami Waterkeeper is leading a research initiative focused on industrial stormwater pollution along the Miami River, particularly within the heavily industrialized corridor lined with metal scrapyards and related facilities. Many of these operations function under National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, which require strict monitoring and pollution prevention measures. However, analysis of self-reported data has revealed patterns of non-compliance, raising concerns about impacts to the Miami River and downstream ecosystems such as Biscayne Bay.
To further support this work, the team conducted a vessel-based site survey along the river, allowing them to observe industrial operations from the water, document stormwater infrastructure, and identify potential discharge points not visible from land. Water samples collected during the survey will contribute to ongoing analysis and help inform the next phases of the project.
Application
This project, led by Miami Waterkeeper, focuses on investigating industrial stormwater pollution along the Miami River, particularly from facilities operating under NPDES permits. The April 13th outing supported a river-based field survey to observe industrial operations, document stormwater infrastructure, and collect water samples from key locations. The data and imagery collected will be used to support ongoing analysis, as well as inform future legal and regulatory efforts related to industrial stormwater management in the corridor.
Expedition Summary
On April 13, 2026, The International SeaKeepers Society assisted Miami Waterkeeper aboard SeaKeepers’ vessel DISCOVERY II in conducting a site survey of the Miami River’s industrial corridor. The team traveled along key sections of the river adjacent to metal scrapyards and other industrial facilities, documenting operations from the water and identifying potential sources of stormwater discharge.
Throughout the outing, researchers collected water samples at targeted locations and captured photographic evidence to support their ongoing investigation into industrial pollution. The vessel-based perspective allowed the team to observe stormwater infrastructure and site conditions that are not visible from public land access points, strengthening their ability to assess compliance with environmental regulations.
This field effort represents an important component of Miami Waterkeeper’s broader initiative to address industrial stormwater pollution. Data and observations collected during the expedition will support continued analysis, inform advocacy efforts, and contribute to potential legal actions aimed at improving water quality and protecting the health of the Miami River and Biscayne Bay.
Location
Miami River, Miami
Duration of Project
This project began in 2026, with this outing marking the first field effort to collect data.
Leadership
Research Team
- Elizabeth Carpenter
- Abigail Fleming
- George Carty
- Mariana Aziz
- Julia Saltzman
- Noah Edwards
- Captain Aubri Keith, SeaKeepers
Partner Sites
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