Northeast Ocean Data announces the release of a centralized source of eelgrass maps and data for the northeastern United States. Eelgrass (Zostera marina) is a flowering underwater plant that provides food and shelter for a great variety of commercially and recreationally important fish and shellfish and their prey. The presence of eelgrass is an important consideration for a variety of coastal and ocean management activities.
To assist with regional planning efforts, Northeast Ocean Data has compiled eelgrass data from state surveys into a single, centralized source. This is the first time these datasets have been compiled on a regional scale and made available online.
Features of the Eelgrass Resource Page
- An interactive map shows eelgrass coverage based on available recent data for Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.
- An interactive map of past eelgrass surveys shows eelgrass in selected places from studies as early as the mid-1800s.
- A directory provides links to other sources of eelgrass data and information.
The Northeast Data Working Group developed the eelgrass resource page collaboratively with state agencies and a group of eelgrass experts.
