LONG-TERM OYSTER MONITORING IN THE ST. LUCIE ESTUARY AND INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
We are assessing the growth and long-term survival of oyster spat in the St. Lucie Estuary and Indian River Lagoon by utilizing newly developed concrete spat modules mounted to PVC “trees”. The study will provide insight into the differences in growth and mortality rates among oyster spat related to ecological stressors within the St Lucie Estuary and Indian River Lagoon.
Plastic Free Alternatives for Oyster Restoration
We are currently developing and testing plastic-free oyster reef restoration modules. These modules are designed to be deployable by citizen scientists and provide a substrate for oyster settlement without introducing plastics into our waterways.
Jensen Beach Impoundment Recovery
We are assisting in the restoration of a local 55-acre mangrove forest by monitoring changes in water quality and vegetation resulting from restoration efforts. These results will help to guide future mangrove restoration in the local area.
Seagrass and Clam Mesocosm Stress Study
We are currently researching the impact that hard clams (Mercenaria mercenaria) have on the growth of Shoal Grass (Halodule wrightii) under different light levels (stressor). This mesocosm experiment is set up in our seagrass nursery and is monitored weekly, the results we observe will help to improve seagrass and hard clam restoration in the Indian River Lagoon.
