Trash Rapid Assessment Data Exchange
Project Description
The Trash Rapid Assessment Data Exchange (TRADE) helps achieve trash-free waters by connecting Citizen Science to the monitoring and reporting needs of Municipal Storm Water (MS4) Permittees.
Background
California’s Trash Amendments require storm water permittees to achieve zero-trash discharge by 2030 and may serve as a model for similar policies in other states. To comply, many MS4 permittees are pursuing Track 2 (full capture equivalency), a path which requires extensive and ongoing trash monitoring in their jurisdictions. Citizen science can support those business needs if equipped with appropriate technology, training, and quality assurance.
Goals (through June 2023)
Build a public data exchange platform for citizen-scientists to contribute trash assessment data that is collected and formatted in a consistent, quality-assured manner.
Build a website/dashboard to visualize and download trash data in support of MS4 permittees’ monitoring, programming, and reporting needs.
Create a model platform that can be replicated in other states and regulatory contexts.
Collaboration Needs (as of June 2021)
Coordinate with ongoing work on trash data collection methodology and permit reporting.
Seek collaborations with six MS4 Track 2 permittees across California.
Identify long term server host and IT support for TRADE.