Solent Maritime SAC: Subtidal Seagrass Condition Monitoring.
Abstract
The Solent Maritime Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is undergoing a new round of monitoring for its subtidal seagrass (Zostera marina) beds, with surveys conducted in 2018 and 2020 by the Environment Agency serving as baseline data. Led by Natural England, the 2021 in situ survey program follows methods developed for similar surveys in Torbay. This effort, part of the EU LIFE Recreation ReMEDIES Project, aims to reduce and mitigate erosion and disturbance impacts affecting the seabed. By evaluating seagrass extent and ecological conditions, the project seeks to restore these critical habitats from their current unfavorable or unknown states, aligning with conservation targets for the SAC.