Sleat Nature Group
Beach Surveys
Working with Dr Tom Stanton and his team from
Loughborough University
In 2024 Sleat Nature Group began a regular quarterly survey of one of their favourite beaches, Ostaig. The surveys are part of a long-term research project on the evolution of, and ongoing issues with beach litter on Skye, led by Dr Tom Stanton of Loughborough University (watch the video here: https://youtu.be/6G4LVAEn1s0?si=fq4g_QzPyxMg-rIr )
During each survey the volunteers collect marine litter from marked 100 square metre plots (ie, 10mx10m quadrants) along a transect set between the most recent high water mark and the uppermost permanent ‘storm’ high water mark. All surface litter that has been washed up on the beach found in the quadrants is sorted and identified according to Scottish Islands Federation (SIF) identification spreadsheets that begin to determine the litter’s source.
The survey results contribute data into both the SIF/Marine Conservation Society surveys and to Loughborough University’s ’50 Years of Litter on Skye’ academic project that aims to help inform government policy on the marine litter problem.
Spring, summer and autumn surveys are typically held in conjunction with a community beach clean, gathering together locals for a morning of beach wombling. The beach cleans are assisted by the Highland Council who provide a skip to remove the collected waste.
The graphic below shows a typical breakdown of the kind of marine litter found on Ostaig beach
Tokavaig Beach Clean June 26
Our latest community beach clean was at Tokavaig and despite the terrible weather we had 14 eager pickers fuelled by tea, coffee and cake. A couple of SNG members had already cleaned part of the beach at Tormore House and Drumfearn beach.
Most of the beach rubbish on Tokavaig beach was small so the trailer full of bags shows just how important it is to remove the small pieces as there are often a lot.
Many thanks to all who came to help.
