5. Conclusions
Despite the subjectivity in manual plume outlining and subsequent uncertainties in the determination of plume size, extent, and frequency, this study identifies regular, widespread turbidity plumes associated with dredging activity in the Port of Miami region. The conclusion is based not only on time-series analysis of both Landsat and MODIS observations, but also on the established rules to discount the natural turbidity events due to other environmental factors. The ephemeral nature of these plumes, combined with in situ reports of large scale sedimentation of coral communities, strongly indicates potentially widespread ecological damage. Overall, the methods described here provide a framework by which turbidity plumes resulting from human activities can be assessed and monitored in coastal, optically complex regions. As dredging activities are scheduled for other areas (including those with nearby coral communities such as Port Everglades, FL), similar work should be completed as part of the real-time monitoring of dredging activities in order to more appropriately assess turbidity plumes and potentially mitigate environmental damage.