About this project:
Delaware Sea Grant and the Delaware Statewide Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) Workgroup are launching an exciting new Volunteer SAV Monitoring Program to engage communities in protecting and restoring Delaware’s waterways. SAV, also referred to as seagrass, bay-grass and underwater grasses, are rooted, vascular, flowering aquatic plants that grow and thrive completely underwater. These underwater plants thrive in freshwater, brackish and saltwater environments providing food, shelter and breeding grounds for fish, birds and other wildlife. One acre of SAV can support up to 40,000 fish and 50 million invertebrates, making it one of the most biodiverse aquatic habitats. In addition, scientific studies show that involving the public in environmental monitoring fosters awareness, strengthens connections to nature and enhances conservation efforts.
This program will empower volunteers to collect essential data on SAV presence, density and species composition across the state in both freshwater and saltwater habitats, filling critical gaps in statewide monitoring. By combining science and community action, we aim to:
- Enhance Data Collection: Equip volunteers with tools and training to gather reliable SAV data across Delaware.
- Promote Community Engagement & Education: Inspire stewardship by educating volunteers on the role of SAV in ecosystem health.
- Support Conservation and Restoration Efforts: Provide decision-makers with data to track SAV changes and guide restoration projects.
- Build Stronger Partnerships: Strengthen collaboration between volunteers, scientists, agencies and conservation groups.
- Ensure Sustainability: Develop a long-term, standardized monitoring program to support future research and restoration.
Your support will help provide the necessary equipment and supplies for volunteers, ensuring the success of this vital program. Join us in "Gearing Up for Green" and making a lasting impact on Delaware’s aquatic ecosystems!
How your support makes a difference!
Your gift will directly empower volunteers with the equipment and resources they need to monitor and protect Delaware’s underwater grasses. With your support, we can provide essential gear for volunteer monitoring teams—such as waterproof pens, clipboards and data sheets, water quality monitoring instruments, durable field storage bags, SAV sampling tools and identification guides—that will allow community scientists to gather reliable data on SAV health and distribution. These contributions not only help fill critical knowledge gaps but also foster environmental stewardship by engaging more people in hands-on conservation. By funding this initiative, you are investing in cleaner waterways, healthier ecosystems and a more informed and engaged community working together to protect Delaware’s aquatic habitats for future generations.
Gifts may also be used as general support for Delaware Sea Grant initiatives.
