The University of Florida’s
Operation TRAP project supports NOAA’s mission to prevent and mitigate adverse marine debris impacts to NOAA Trust Resources. The project aims to immediately reduce the amount of single-use plastic materials that enter Aquatic Preserve waterways through drainage systems and boat access points using innovative litter interception technologies, rather than traditional cleanups.
Currently, the team has installed 3 boom catchment devices, 25 storm drain traps (16 in Pasco County and 9 in Cedar Key), and 12 monofilament tubes. Boom catchment devices intercept floating debris that has made its way into the creeks and canal waterways and prevent debris from entering open water where it will quickly be dispersed by currents. Storm drain traps are retrofitted to existing storm drains, are lightweight, and easy to maintain. The traps intercept debris from roadways and recreational areas before they are introduced into the waterway. Monofilament tubes are used to recycle monofilament fishing lines to reduce the environmental damage caused by discarded fishing line.
Cleanouts of the devices happen once a month (weather permitting) totaling anywhere from 3-4 cleanouts per month. Scholar will be reimbursed for mileage/travel expenses.
Ideally, the scholar would begin in August at the start of the Fall 2025 semester. Some of the duties the scholar would have include:
- helping with cleanouts and maintenance of litter interceptor devices,
- helping install new interceptor devices,
- collecting data on the trash captured,
- training volunteers,
- representing Operation TRAP at outreach events,
- writing blogs and social media posts,
- participating in team calls and meetings, and
- educating/presenting to others about the project at appropriate meetings/conferences.
Student Requirements: - Valid driver’s license
- Reliable mode of transportation to travel to project sites
- Must be pursuing Gulf Scholars Medallion
- Available one full day during the week (Monday - Friday) to help with cleanouts
