A preliminary assessment of microplastic pollution in a local watershed of Cincinnati, Ohio, prior to reservoir dredging
Start Date
2023 2:15 PM
Location
Alter Hall Poster Session 1 - 3rd floor
Abstract
Microplastics, defined as small particles of plastic between 2 and 5 μm, are a pressing environmental concern due to the growing use of plastic products and subsequent disposal. While most microplastic research has focused on marine systems, a growing concern exists on the presence of microplastics in freshwater systems and additional impacts to humans and wildlife. The main objective of this preliminary study was to assess the prevalence of microplastics in water surrounding a dammed reservoir. These results will provide baseline data to assess the role of dam dredging on microplastics. Samples were taken from Sharon Woods Park, Cincinnati, Ohio, in October 2022, from three stream sites on Sharon Creek (upstream of the reservoir, immediately downstream and further downstream of the dam) and two sites on Sharon Lake (immediately above the dam and middle edge). Water samples (n=5) were collected in glass Mason jars below the water’s surface at each site. Two control samples were also obtained at each site by holding open jars above the water’s surface for 15 seconds. Field samples were filtered and examined using a dissecting microscope. Microplastics were identified and quantified by type (fragments, fibers, pellets, foams, and films). Filtered deionized water, deionized water, and tap water were also used as laboratory controls. If time permits, Nile red dye staining will be utilized in fluorescent spectroscopy. Microplastics were present at all sample sites, including both stream and lake sites. Preliminary results indicate the most abundant types of microplastics in the samples were fibers and fragments.
A preliminary assessment of microplastic pollution in a local watershed of Cincinnati, Ohio, prior to reservoir dredging
Alter Hall Poster Session 1 - 3rd floor
Microplastics, defined as small particles of plastic between 2 and 5 μm, are a pressing environmental concern due to the growing use of plastic products and subsequent disposal. While most microplastic research has focused on marine systems, a growing concern exists on the presence of microplastics in freshwater systems and additional impacts to humans and wildlife. The main objective of this preliminary study was to assess the prevalence of microplastics in water surrounding a dammed reservoir. These results will provide baseline data to assess the role of dam dredging on microplastics. Samples were taken from Sharon Woods Park, Cincinnati, Ohio, in October 2022, from three stream sites on Sharon Creek (upstream of the reservoir, immediately downstream and further downstream of the dam) and two sites on Sharon Lake (immediately above the dam and middle edge). Water samples (n=5) were collected in glass Mason jars below the water’s surface at each site. Two control samples were also obtained at each site by holding open jars above the water’s surface for 15 seconds. Field samples were filtered and examined using a dissecting microscope. Microplastics were identified and quantified by type (fragments, fibers, pellets, foams, and films). Filtered deionized water, deionized water, and tap water were also used as laboratory controls. If time permits, Nile red dye staining will be utilized in fluorescent spectroscopy. Microplastics were present at all sample sites, including both stream and lake sites. Preliminary results indicate the most abundant types of microplastics in the samples were fibers and fragments.
