Cornell Cooperative Extension's Marine Meadows Program encourages community participation in marine habitat restoration.
Eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) is a submerged aquatic species of great ecological importance that provides essential habitat for many species of fin fish and shellfish. In recent decades, eelgrass populations in the waters surrounding Long Island, NY have declined considerably due to pollution, disturbance and disease.
We work closely with various community organizations to help gather volunteers to assist in weaving eelgrass shoots (harvested from healthy donor meadows in our local waters) into burlap planting discs. Once assembled, these discs will be planted by highly trained, SCUBA certified CCE Marine Program staff in carefully selected restoration sites in our local estuaries. These newly created “marine meadows” will serve as important marine habitat and help enhance the health and productivity of our local bays.
Address & Contact
- Street:
- 3690 Cedar Beach Rd
- City:
- Southold
- State:
- NY
- Phone:
- (631) 852-8660
- Website:
- www.seagrassli.org
- Category:
- Non-Profit Organization