ABOUT US
Delaware Statewide Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (DESSAV) Workgroup
Delaware is turning the tide when it comes to submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV)! While the state has faced challenges in recognizing and restoring SAV due to historical water quality issues, exciting progress is underway. With improving water conditions, there’s a growing buzz among stakeholders to explore SAV’s current status and unlock its restoration potential in both freshwater and estuarine habitats.​
In 2023, Delaware Sea Grant (DESG) took a big step forward by hosting a SAV Stakeholder Meeting to spark collaboration and statewide action. Building on that momentum, 2024 marked the launch of Delaware's Statewide SAV Workgroup—lovingly nicknamed DeSSAV! This dynamic team, created by DESG and the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), brings together over 40 passionate members from state and federal agencies, non-profits, and educational institutions.
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In 2024, DeSSAV established key priority work areas statewide to provide strategic guidance for organizations seeking to collaborate with SAV. This document will undergo annual review and updates to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness.
Is your organization interested in participating? Contact us today!
Steering Committee Members
Kayla Clauson
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Brittany Haywood
Delaware Sea Grant
University of Delaware
Taylor Hoffman
Delaware Center for the Inland Bays
Jessica Klinkam
Partnership for the Delaware Estuary