Maine’s seagrass meadows, crucial for marine biodiversity, are facing a significant decline. Researchers from the Collaborative for Bioregional Action Learning and Transformation (COBALT) and other organizations are working together to study and restore these ecosystems.

Importance of Seagrass Meadows

Seagrass meadows provide shelter for young marine species, improve water quality, and store excess carbon. They also absorb wave energy, reducing erosion and protecting coastal communities from storms.

According to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, the state had over 30,000 acres of seagrass beds in the 1990s. However, some regions have lost more than half of their seagrass beds since then.

Causes of Decline

Rising temperatures, coastal development, nutrient pollution, and invasive species are potential causes of the decline. Researchers are working to identify the exact causes and develop strategies for restoration.

Cheyenne Adams, a biologist at the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, emphasized the importance of understanding and protecting these marine ecosystems, which are vital for the state’s coastal economies.

Restoration Efforts

Researchers are collecting seeds from healthy seagrass meadows and testing methods to transplant them to areas where eelgrass has been lost. They are also working to build awareness and connections with others who care about the ecosystem.

Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.