Problem

Seagrasses provide important habitat that supports the near shore coastal ecosystem. Seagrasses have been historically impacted on the South Coast of Puerto Rico by a combination of factors, including recreation and boating anchoring, shipping, shoreline development and construction of coastal piers, development, pollution from debris, trash, sewage, and septic systems.

Solution

Specific sources of pollution can be identified and addressed through better infrastructure, community clean-up efforts, education and outreach.

Implementation

Efforts began by identifying specific locations of illicit sewage connections and poorly sited septic systems. With great community involvement, we pin-pointed underwater locations of marine debris by conducting tow boarding seagrass surveys. With the locations targeted, underwater clean-up efforts were very successful. We also engaged people with education and outreach efforts, particularly at public boating access locations. 

Outcomes

Mitigating point-source pollution and directly removing debris supports healthy regrowth of eelgrass beds. Education from outreach efforts promotes informed decisions by boaters and locals. Boaters and recreational users operating sustainably contributes to the resilience of new seagrass growth.