Marion Students Help with Microplastics Study

Posted Date: 6/12/25 (5:01 PM)

Marion Students Help With Study of Microplastics in Environment

Work Aids Research With Save Our Sodus and University of Rochester

June 12, 2025

Marion students study microplastics in the environment with Save Our Sodus group.

These students didn’t exactly discover plastic, but they did find some. And it’s everywhere.

So now what?

That’s the question nearly 40 students in Marion biology classes are helping to address as part of Save Our Sodus, a local organization committed to preserving water quality, protecting shorelines and promoting sustainable living. The focus for the Marion students was microplastics and their presence in our environment.

The Marion students are working with Save Our Sodus and the University of Rochester to identify the presence of microplastics. Students studied water, fish and sand and used a scientific process to confirm the presence of microplastics under the guidance of Marion biology teachers Mrs. Goodman and Dr. Pasquarette.

“For them to take an idea and learn so much about it in a couple of weeks is impressive,” said Mrs. Goodman.

Spectrum News in Rochester broadcast a story about the project and Superintendent Dr. Ellen Lloyd praised the eagerness of Marion students who embraced the opportunity to learn more about not just the environment, but the environment that is their home.

“I think one of the things that's important, especially in rural communities, is that kids get provided with opportunities. And that kids see value in their home and their place,” Dr. Lloyd told Spectrum in a story you can watch here.

Channel 8 (WROC) also did a story about the project, which includes an interview with Dr. Lloyd.

The Marion students are sharing their data with the University of Rochester for further research. The public also is invited to see what the students learned and can do so at the June 21 event at Oscar Fuerst Field on Bay Street in Sodus Point. The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.