Protocols- Survey types

In this module you will learn about different standing stock and Accumulation surveys, with a step-by-step approach to each.

The objectives of your study will determine how you monitor for marine debris. There are two primary methods of doing this: The standing stock survey and the accumulation survey.

Types of surveys

Standing Stock Surveys:

Standing-stock studies provide information on the amount and types of debris on the shoreline. Debris within discrete transects at the shoreline site is tallied during standing stock surveys. This is a quick assessment of the total load of debris and is used to determine the density (# of items per unit area) of debris present. Debris density reflects the long-term balance between debris inputs and removal and is important to understanding the overall impact of debris.

Accumulation Surveys:

Accumulation studies provide information on the rate of deposition (flux) of debris onto the shoreline. These studies are more suited to areas that have beach cleanups, as debris is removed from the entire length of shoreline during each site visit. This type of survey is more labor-intensive and is used to determine the rate of debris deposition (# of items per unit area, per unit time). Accumulation studies can also provide information about debris type and weight. These surveys cannot be used to measure the density of debris on the shoreline because removal of debris biases the amount of debris present during subsequent surveys.