Surveying Biscayne Bay for Hazards to Mariners & Marine Life
DISCOVERY Vessel Bay Browser
Miami, Florida
September 5, 2024
Program Overview
Concerns are rising over the increasing number of illegal moorings, abandoned and derelict vessels, sunken vessels, and other hazards to navigation and marine life in Biscayne Bay—many of which require specialized equipment for removal. The goal of this project is to survey specific grids, collecting data on the location, type, and depth of these hazards. This information will allow the appropriate authorities to fine the owners of illegal or abandoned items and facilitate their removal, improving safety for both mariners and marine ecosystems.
Application
The data collected on the locations of derelict and submerged vessels, illegal moorings and mooring blocks, unmarked traps, and large debris that divers couldn’t remove during the event will be used to issue fines to the owners of illegal traps or moored vessels. Additionally, private contractors will be hired to remove the remaining debris and items from the waterway.
Expedition Summary
On September 5th, 2024, The International SeaKeepers Society participated in a collaborative marine debris survey in Biscayne Bay, organized by FORCE BLUE in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources, and the Miami-Dade Police and Fire Department Dive Teams. DISCOVERY Vessel Bay Browser served as the platform for FORCE BLUE divers, while also assisting the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserves vessel. Over the course of the day, the teams identified six sunken vessels, a full engine block, several illegal moorings and mooring blocks, two fishing nets, 40 feet of chain, three illegal traps, and other miscellaneous debris. Any debris that could be safely removed by divers was brought ashore, while larger items were documented for later removal by contractors. This comprehensive survey provided critical data for improving navigational safety and protecting marine life in Biscayne Bay.
Location
Biscayne Bay, Miami, Florida
Duration of Project
This was the first time these organizations collaborated to address this issue, and due to its success, the initiative will continue next April and beyond, with plans to expand across various sites in Biscayne Bay.
Leadership
- Angelo Fiore, FORCE BLUE Chairman
- Griffin Alexander, Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve Manager
Research Team
- Bethany Tober, Marine Debris & Education Specialist, Florida DEP
- George Mills, FORCE BLUE
- Jeff Gum, FORCE BLUE
- Nick Fiore, FORCE BLUE
- Kaj Larsen, FORCE BLUE
You must be logged in to post a comment.