For the past three years, Waynesburg University’s Department of Biology, Environmental Science and Health Science marine biology program has provided students with the opportunity to study marine pollution firsthand through immersive trips to the Florida coast. These trips, designed to raise awareness about the devastating effects of pollution—particularly plastic waste—on marine ecosystems, offer students a unique, hands-on learning experience.

This year’s adventure took place from Jan. 4, to Jan. 11, in Titusville, Florida, during the University’s winter break. Led by Dr. Christian Hayes and Dr. Tracy Dohn-Cummins, the trip included eight students to expand their understanding of marine conservation and pollution’s long-term impact on marine life.

According to Hayes, the primary focus of the weeklong program was to collect waste from local beaches while studying pollution’s origins and effects. Plastic pollution remains a significant threat to marine ecosystems, with plastics in the ocean often being ingested by marine animals, leading to severe health complications or death.

“It’s the little plastics that I am more concerned about,” Hayes said. “The big ones are scary enough.”

According to Hayes, in addition to their cleanup efforts, students conducted a study on mole crabs, a small crustacean species commonly found on beaches and often used as bait by fishermen. These crabs play a crucial role in the coastal ecosystem by transferring nutrients from sand to seabirds and other wildlife.

“With the work we did alongside A Rocha USA and local fishermen, we found that the mole crab population has declined in recent years,” Hayes said. 

For freshman Tyler Waldmann, this trip was an eye-opening experience. “The marine trip made me open my eyes to see how much people impact the world through overpopulation, pollution and neglect of the environment,” Waldmann shared. “It really put into perspective the importance of conservation efforts.”

Hayes, who has been organizing and leading these trips for three years, hopes to continue providing students with opportunities to engage in meaningful service. He encourages students to consider participating in future trips to deepen their understanding of environmental conservation.

Hayes confirmed the next marine biology trip is scheduled for January 2026, with sign-ups opening in the fall semester of 2025. With only eight spots available, students interested in this hands-on experience should register early. Hayes explained that the past and future trips have and will continue to follow God’s plan, and to remain aligned with Waynesburg’s mission of “Faith, Learning, and Service.”