Eelgrass Monitoring

Eelgrass

The Eelgrass Condition Monitoring Program includes monthly bed condition assessment, yearly density measurements and transect assessment, yearly restoration plantings assessment, and yearly bay-wide aral eelgrass distribution assessment. Parameters included in the monthly bed condition assessment are silt/epiphyte loading, recruitment, indications of disease, reproductive stage, and extent of shading (if applicable). The collection of water samples to analyze nitrate concentrations will be included in the monthly assessment. Finally, manual removal of algae will periodically be required in priority areas to allow eelgrass to expand beyond the limits of the transplant plots. The success of each planting will be examined yearly with sidescan sonar during high tides as well as collecting shoot density and percent bottom cover data. Random transects will be one method employed to monitor annual variables. Both professional experts and MBNEP staff and volunteers will be utilized in eelgrass monitoring and assessment efforts.

[space height=”30″]

Morro Bay National Estuary Program brings together citizens, local governments, non-profits, agencies, and landowners to protect and restore the Morro Bay estuary.

[space height=”30″]

Protecting and Restoring the Morro Bay Estuary.