Potential restoration for submerged aquatic vegetation in Galveston Bay

A decline of seagrass beds, or submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), over the past few decades has recently been documented. Several studies have documented the losses from the mid-1950s to the late 1980s (Pulich and White, 1990; McFarlane, 1991; White and Paine, 1992). The Habitat Protection Task Force of the Galveston Bay National Estuary Program has as an objective to Protect and restore submerged aquatic vegetation (GBNEP, 1992). And a variety of groups are interested in enhancing/creating SAV habitat for a particular animal group of interest, such as, Ducks Unlimited for waterfowl and Gulf Coast Conservation Association for important recreational fisheries. This study explores the potential control factors, appropriate techniques/methodology, and cost effective opportunities for SAV restoration projects.