Tiny pieces of plastic are so pervasive in Georgia’s coastal waters, researchers estimate there are more than a trillion microplastic particles and fibers in the top foot of the state’s inshore waterways.

The issue of microplastics in coastal waters and what, if anything, can be done about them will be the focus of a special Evening @ Skidaway program on Thursday, Nov. 16, in the McGowan Library on the University of Georgia Skidaway Marine Science Campus. (10 Ocean Science Circle, Savannah, GA 31411)

Jay Brandes

The program will begin with a reception at 6:15 p.m., followed by a panel discussion at 7 p.m. The program will be co-sponsored by UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, and the UGA Skidaway Institute of Oceanography.

Maia McGuire

The panel will include Florida Sea Grant Extension Agent Maia McGuire and UGA Skidaway Institute scientist Jay Brandes. McGuire has conducted research and outreach on microplastics in Florida waters. Brandes is currently completing a Georgia Sea Grant-funded research project to document the extent of microplastic pollution in Georgia waters.

An “Evening @ Skidaway” is open to the public, and admission is free. Space is limited. To reserve a seat, please call (912) 598-2325 or email mike.sullivan@skio.uga.edu.

For more information, visit https://www.skio.uga.edu/2017/09/19/microplastics-microfibers-prevalent-georgia-coastal-waters/.