The Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Pre Production Rubber Pellets in Lake Champlain

Abstract

Pre-production rubber pellets, a form of primary microplastics used in manufacturing, were first detected in Lake Champlain in 2012. These uniform 1 mm pellets pose ecological concerns due to their persistence and potential impacts on freshwater ecosystems. This study investigates the spatial and vertical distribution of these pellets using long-term data (1992–present) from the Lake Champlain Research Institute at SUNY Plattsburgh, collected from 15 lake stations. Pellets were quantified from samples retrieved via net tows from lake bottoms and vertical sampling at 5-meter intervals. In 2012, pellets were found ubiquitously across all stations, with Station 33 reporting the highest count (213). Vertical distribution analysis showed pellet presence at all depths. A Chi-Square test of independence revealed no statistically significant relationship between storm events and vertical pellet distribution. These findings suggest a widespread and persistent presence of pre-production microplastics in Lake Champlain, independent of storm disturbances, and no significant distribution pattern. Ongoing statistical analyses aim to refine our understanding of microplastic transport and inform policy on plastic pellet management and mitigation strategies in the future.