Eelgrass Restoration

I believe its natural for a Naturalist to be curious.

On Island:

I have been eager to learn that a large quantity of Eelgrass decay washes ashore in East Harbor. In fact I note every week that high tides appear to deposit more shredded Eelgrass debris on the north side of the island than the south side.

Off Island:

This January I have observed large numbers of Mute Swan inhabiting Wequetequock Cove across the way in Stonington, CT.

Research shows that Mute Swans feed primarily on Eelgrass during the winter. Unlike other grazing waterfowl, swans tend to uproot the plants entirely-and a single swan can consume up to 8 lbs a day!

The result can be destructive with loss of seagrass beds and ecosystem habitat.

Wequetequock Cove empties into Fishers Island Sound.

Now:

  I am even more curious to learn about Eelgrass conservation and restoration.