Microplastics are an emerging marine pollution issue with implications for the health of aquatic species, including those harvested from Delaware Bay for human consumption (e.g. oysters). Delaware Sea Grant funded researchers developed a standard operating procedure for the sampling and identification of zooplankton in the Delaware Bay. This "Zooscan technology" has now been applied to sampling microplastics in the bay. The results will be of immediate use to project partners at the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control as they explore strategies to investigate the extent and implications of microplastics in Delaware Bay.

A new kayak launch installed by the Nanticoke Rotary Club was the outcome of a Delaware Sea Grant-produced waterfront redevelopment plan for the Broad Creek waterfront in Laurel, DE, thus providing additional waterfront access for residents and visitors. Delaware Sea Grant produced a landscaping plan for the area adjacent to the kayak launch and assisted with opening day activities that involved more than 25 participants. Town officials report an increase in the number of paddlers using the Broad Creek as an observed consequence following the opening of the new kayak launch.

Delaware Sea Grant’s early investments in technology development for coastal applications helped establish the University of Delaware Robotics Discovery Lab (RDL). Sea Grant's early investments demonstrated the feasibility of deploying underwater vehicles for coastal mapping to leverage the infrastructure provided by RDL and develop new technologies for improving our understanding of natural environment. Sea Grant continues to support RDL with funding for drone and autonomous vehicle applications for coastal resilience, including shoreline management and pre- and post-storm mapping.