FROM THE FIELD | DE Underwater Grass

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Explora lo último de los Proyectos SAV de Delaware

Actualizaciones, historias y momentos destacados del campo de nuestro equipo y voluntarios.

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🌿 Feature Friday: Diving into Delaware’s Only Brackish SAV Bed

Meet TreVaughn, a PhD candidate at the University of Delaware studying Ruppia maritima, also known as widgeon grass, the only true brackish SAV species in Delaware with abundant beds.

You’ve likely seen it in our inland bays with thread-like leaves, branching stems, and those distinctive coiled flowering stalks in summer.

But his research goes deeper than what we can see! As a doctoral student in Jennifer Biddle’s lab, he studies the microscopic organisms living on SAV — the important underwater grasses that support fish, crabs, waterfowl, and water quality here in Delaware.

His work includes:
• Studying how microbes generate energy underwater
• Conducting a statewide census of Delaware’s submerged aquatic vegetation
• Running lab experiments to test how SAV microbiomes respond to physical stress — like boat activity, heat, and plant damage

When SAV dries out during low tide or gets torn up by propellers and storms, it doesn’t just affect the plant. It also changes the tiny microbial community living on its surface.

These microbes aren’t just passengers — they influence plant health, stress response, and overall ecosystem resilience.

TreVaughn is working to understand whether those microbial shifts help SAV recover… or make it more vulnerable.

Why does that matter?

Because disturbance is increasing. And if we want to protect or restore SAV, we need to understand not just the plant — but the biological partnerships that support it.

Delaware may not have expansive eelgrass meadows like our neighbors, but our brackish systems are dynamic, resilient, and scientifically important.

Proud to see this kind of science happening right here in our backyard!

#DelawareSAV #RuppiaMaritima #UnderwaterGrasses #MarineScience #UniversityOfDelaware #LewesDE

🌿 Feature Friday: Diving into Delaware’s Only Brackish SAV Bed

Meet TreVaughn, a PhD candidate at the University of Delaware studying Ruppia maritima, also known as widgeon grass, the only true brackish SAV species in Delaware with abundant beds.

You’ve likely seen it in our inland bays with thread-like leaves, branching stems, and those distinctive coiled flowering stalks in summer.

But his research goes deeper than what we can see! As a doctoral student in Jennifer Biddle’s lab, he studies the microscopic organisms living on SAV — the important underwater grasses that support fish, crabs, waterfowl, and water quality here in Delaware.

His work includes:
• Studying how microbes generate energy underwater
• Conducting a statewide census of Delaware’s submerged aquatic vegetation
• Running lab experiments to test how SAV microbiomes respond to physical stress — like boat activity, heat, and plant damage

When SAV dries out during low tide or gets torn up by propellers and storms, it doesn’t just affect the plant. It also changes the tiny microbial community living on its surface.

These microbes aren’t just passengers — they influence plant health, stress response, and overall ecosystem resilience.

TreVaughn is working to understand whether those microbial shifts help SAV recover… or make it more vulnerable.

Why does that matter?

Because disturbance is increasing. And if we want to protect or restore SAV, we need to understand not just the plant — but the biological partnerships that support it.

Delaware may not have expansive eelgrass meadows like our neighbors, but our brackish systems are dynamic, resilient, and scientifically important.

Proud to see this kind of science happening right here in our backyard!

#DelawareSAV #RuppiaMaritima #UnderwaterGrasses #MarineScience #UniversityOfDelaware #LewesDE

If they don’t appreciate a good SAV pun…
are they even the one?

Tag someone who’s wild (celery) about clean water.

Happy Valentines Day! ❤️

If they don’t appreciate a good SAV pun…
are they even the one?

Tag someone who’s wild (celery) about clean water.

Happy Valentines Day! ❤️

Common names are doing their best...
This is why scientific names matter!

Part 1 of SAV names that are lying to you

What other plant names can you think of that don't "add up?" 🤔

Common names are doing their best...
This is why scientific names matter!

Part 1 of SAV names that are lying to you

What other plant names can you think of that don't "add up?" 🤔

🌿 SAV Seekers is officially launching! 🌿
We’re excited to kick off SAV Seekers, a new volunteer monitoring program focused on submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) across Delaware—and we’re inviting community members to get involved.

Our first step is SAV Seekers Training: Part 1, where participants will learn the basics of SAV, why it matters, and how volunteers contribute meaningful data that supports monitoring, management, and future restoration efforts statewide.

✔️ No prior experience required
✔️ Open to volunteers and organizations
✔️ Science-based, hands-on, and community driven

📅 Training details, location, and registration can be found here:
👉 https://www.delawaresav.org/event-details/sav-seekers-training-part-1

Join us and help build Delaware’s first coordinated SAV volunteer monitoring network!

🌿 SAV Seekers is officially launching! 🌿
We’re excited to kick off SAV Seekers, a new volunteer monitoring program focused on submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) across Delaware—and we’re inviting community members to get involved.

Our first step is SAV Seekers Training: Part 1, where participants will learn the basics of SAV, why it matters, and how volunteers contribute meaningful data that supports monitoring, management, and future restoration efforts statewide.

✔️ No prior experience required
✔️ Open to volunteers and organizations
✔️ Science-based, hands-on, and community driven

📅 Training details, location, and registration can be found here:
👉 https://www.delawaresav.org/event-details/sav-seekers-training-part-1

Join us and help build Delaware’s first coordinated SAV volunteer monitoring network!

Baby plants, big questions 🌱

These germination trials focus on Ruppia maritima, a SAV species known for having one of the widest salinity ranges of any SAV. That flexibility makes it a key candidate for restoration in Delaware’s brackish and variable waterways.

Partners from @deseagrant and @delawarednrec are testing how locally sourced brackish Ruppia seeds germinate and grow during their earliest life stages, and how that success might change across different salinity conditions. What we learn here helps inform when, where, and under what conditions Ruppia restoration is most likely to succeed across the state!

Restoration works best when it’s grounded in local plants and local conditions. Follow along for more updates as we continue to experiment!

Baby plants, big questions 🌱

These germination trials focus on Ruppia maritima, a SAV species known for having one of the widest salinity ranges of any SAV. That flexibility makes it a key candidate for restoration in Delaware’s brackish and variable waterways.

Partners from @deseagrant and @delawarednrec are testing how locally sourced brackish Ruppia seeds germinate and grow during their earliest life stages, and how that success might change across different salinity conditions. What we learn here helps inform when, where, and under what conditions Ruppia restoration is most likely to succeed across the state!

Restoration works best when it’s grounded in local plants and local conditions. Follow along for more updates as we continue to experiment!

🍺🌱 Biergarten Banter at Rail Haus

Think of SAV as Delaware’s underwater forests — cleaning water, sheltering wildlife, and holding the bottom together.

Come learn what’s growing beneath the surface at SAV 101!

📅 Feb 4 | 🕕 6 PM | @railhaus

🍺🌱 Biergarten Banter at Rail Haus

Think of SAV as Delaware’s underwater forests — cleaning water, sheltering wildlife, and holding the bottom together.

Come learn what’s growing beneath the surface at SAV 101!

📅 Feb 4 | 🕕 6 PM | @railhaus

From salty to fresh, diversity follows. As salinity drops, more SAV species can survive and thrive. This gradient shapes what we see growing across Delaware’s waterways 🌊➡️💧

Learn more about where to find SAV using our interactive mapping tool at delawaresav.org/locating-sav

#DelawareSAV #SubmergedAquaticVegetation

From salty to fresh, diversity follows. As salinity drops, more SAV species can survive and thrive. This gradient shapes what we see growing across Delaware’s waterways 🌊➡️💧

Learn more about where to find SAV using our interactive mapping tool at delawaresav.org/locating-sav

#DelawareSAV #SubmergedAquaticVegetation

From beneath the surface, we’re wishing everyone a season of connection and renewal. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, the Winter Solstice, or the turning of the year, SAV reminds us that life persists through winter and regrows each year anew— supporting ecosystems now and future.

Happy holidays from the DeSSAV team!

From beneath the surface, we’re wishing everyone a season of connection and renewal. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, the Winter Solstice, or the turning of the year, SAV reminds us that life persists through winter and regrows each year anew— supporting ecosystems now and future.

Happy holidays from the DeSSAV team!

Welcome to DeSSAV’s Flower Shop 🌸

Some blooms show off.
Some keep it subtle.
Some barely look like flowers at all.

All of them are submerged aquatic vegetation — flowering plants descended from land plants that evolved back into the water, reshaping how flowers look and function below the surface.

Want to help spot these in the wild? Learn more about SAV in your local waters at DelawareSAV.org.

#DeSSAV #SubmergedAquaticVegetation #UnderwaterFlowers #PlantEvolution #WaterMeetsLand #CoastalScience #AquaticPlants #DelawareWaters

Welcome to DeSSAV’s Flower Shop 🌸

Some blooms show off.
Some keep it subtle.
Some barely look like flowers at all.

All of them are submerged aquatic vegetation — flowering plants descended from land plants that evolved back into the water, reshaping how flowers look and function below the surface.

Want to help spot these in the wild? Learn more about SAV in your local waters at DelawareSAV.org.

#DeSSAV #SubmergedAquaticVegetation #UnderwaterFlowers #PlantEvolution #WaterMeetsLand #CoastalScience #AquaticPlants #DelawareWaters

🦀🥰Looks friendly -> 🦀☠️Acts feral

Blue crabs are a Mid-Atlantic icon with zero chill.

Adult blue crabs may be all claws now, but early on they grow up in calmer places. Submerged aquatic vegetation creates quiet, structured habitat along the bottom where young crabs can hide, feed, and stay protected- creating underwater “nurseries”.

Those SAV beds help raise and shelter these benthic predators until they’re big enough to take on the world.

Healthy SAV helps support stronger blue crab populations in our coastal waters.

Blue crab fun facts:
- newly hatched “baby” crabs are called Zoea- and they look nothing like a crab!
- they have special modified back pair of legs that helps them swim. Their scientific name actually translates to “beautiful, savory swimmer”
- they molt their hard shell to grow and adults can reach up to 9 inches.

#BlueCrab #SubmergedAquaticVegetation #SAV #CoastalEcology #MarineLife #ChesapeakeBay #MidAtlanticWaters #BenthicPredators #UnderwaterHabitats

🦀🥰Looks friendly -> 🦀☠️Acts feral

Blue crabs are a Mid-Atlantic icon with zero chill.

Adult blue crabs may be all claws now, but early on they grow up in calmer places. Submerged aquatic vegetation creates quiet, structured habitat along the bottom where young crabs can hide, feed, and stay protected- creating underwater “nurseries”.

Those SAV beds help raise and shelter these benthic predators until they’re big enough to take on the world.

Healthy SAV helps support stronger blue crab populations in our coastal waters.

Blue crab fun facts:
- newly hatched “baby” crabs are called Zoea- and they look nothing like a crab!
- they have special modified back pair of legs that helps them swim. Their scientific name actually translates to “beautiful, savory swimmer”
- they molt their hard shell to grow and adults can reach up to 9 inches.

#BlueCrab #SubmergedAquaticVegetation #SAV #CoastalEcology #MarineLife #ChesapeakeBay #MidAtlanticWaters #BenthicPredators #UnderwaterHabitats

Our second year of DeSSAV coordination is officially wrapping up!

With partners across the state, we piloted Delaware’s standardized SAV monitoring protocols, surveyed new waters, documented key species, expanded outreach, and continued building the foundation for statewide SAV restoration.

Next year, we launch SAV Seekers to the public—and we can’t wait to grow this effort together. Stay tuned for more in 2026!

Our second year of DeSSAV coordination is officially wrapping up!

With partners across the state, we piloted Delaware’s standardized SAV monitoring protocols, surveyed new waters, documented key species, expanded outreach, and continued building the foundation for statewide SAV restoration.

Next year, we launch SAV Seekers to the public—and we can’t wait to grow this effort together. Stay tuned for more in 2026!

Take a look inside Delaware’s first SAV-dedicated processing facility.

This space was established and is maintained through @delawarednrec’s investment in restoring submerged aquatic vegetation across the state. It gives us the capacity to take reproductive plant material collected in the field and process it into clean, viable seed - from "turbulating", refinement, final counts and storage.

Partners from the DeSSAV, including @deseagrant and the @deinlandbays , work closely with DNREC to keep this effort moving. Their hands-on support helps ensure this facility can operate at the scale needed for future restoration projects.

More to come on how this work connects to upcoming research and restoration in Delaware waters!

Visit our website at Delawaresav.org to learn more.

#DeSSAV #DelawareSAV #SAVrestoration #UnderwaterGrasses #CoastalEcology

Take a look inside Delaware’s first SAV-dedicated processing facility.

This space was established and is maintained through @delawarednrec’s investment in restoring submerged aquatic vegetation across the state. It gives us the capacity to take reproductive plant material collected in the field and process it into clean, viable seed - from "turbulating", refinement, final counts and storage.

Partners from the DeSSAV, including @deseagrant and the @deinlandbays , work closely with DNREC to keep this effort moving. Their hands-on support helps ensure this facility can operate at the scale needed for future restoration projects.

More to come on how this work connects to upcoming research and restoration in Delaware waters!

Visit our website at Delawaresav.org to learn more.

#DeSSAV #DelawareSAV #SAVrestoration #UnderwaterGrasses #CoastalEcology

This or That?

What are your preferences with some of the things we think about all the time in SAV work—where plants grow, how we see them, how we ID them, and the tools we rely on to understand what’s happening under the surface.

If you want to join in, share your preferences in the comments or on your story and tag us! @savdelaware

#SubmergedAquaticVegetation #SAV #SAVMonitoring #FieldWork #AquaticPlants #UnderwaterVegetation #BrackishWaters #FreshwaterEcology #CoastalScience #EstuaryScience #DelawareWatershed #DelawareEnvironment #RestoreTheBay #HabitatMapping #SonarSurvey #DroneSurvey #WetlandScience #CommunityScience #SciComm #DelawareSAV

This or That?

What are your preferences with some of the things we think about all the time in SAV work—where plants grow, how we see them, how we ID them, and the tools we rely on to understand what’s happening under the surface.

If you want to join in, share your preferences in the comments or on your story and tag us! @savdelaware

#SubmergedAquaticVegetation #SAV #SAVMonitoring #FieldWork #AquaticPlants #UnderwaterVegetation #BrackishWaters #FreshwaterEcology #CoastalScience #EstuaryScience #DelawareWatershed #DelawareEnvironment #RestoreTheBay #HabitatMapping #SonarSurvey #DroneSurvey #WetlandScience #CommunityScience #SciComm #DelawareSAV

We’re using @inaturalistorg to track where submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) is growing across Delaware — and we need your eyes on the water!

If you’re out kayaking, fishing, or walking along the shore and spot underwater grasses, take a photo and upload it to Eyes on SAV – Delaware on @inaturalistorg . Each observation helps fill in the map and gives us a better picture of where SAV is thriving (or missing).

🔗 Join the project with link in bio

#EyesOnSAV #SAVSeekers #DelawareSAV #DelawareWaters #DelawareNature #DelawareBay #DelawareInlandBays #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #CleanWaterStartsHere #UnderwaterGrasses #HabitatRestoration #DeSSAV #DelawareEstuary #GetOutsideDE #iNaturalist #VolunteerDE

We’re using @inaturalistorg to track where submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) is growing across Delaware — and we need your eyes on the water!

If you’re out kayaking, fishing, or walking along the shore and spot underwater grasses, take a photo and upload it to Eyes on SAV – Delaware on @inaturalistorg . Each observation helps fill in the map and gives us a better picture of where SAV is thriving (or missing).

🔗 Join the project with link in bio

#EyesOnSAV #SAVSeekers #DelawareSAV #DelawareWaters #DelawareNature #DelawareBay #DelawareInlandBays #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #CleanWaterStartsHere #UnderwaterGrasses #HabitatRestoration #DeSSAV #DelawareEstuary #GetOutsideDE #iNaturalist #VolunteerDE

Spooky SAV Spotlight: Hydrilla

Not all monsters lurk in the deep - some grow there!

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) is one of the most prolific aquatic invaders in the U.S. It can grow an inch a day, forming dense mats that block sunlight and crowd out native species. But even this spooky species still does "SAV things" providing cover for fish, stabilizing sediment, and improving water clarity where it grows.

That’s the trick (and the treat): Hydrilla shows us where conditions can support underwater plant growth. When it shows up (or by it being there and facilitating the habitat), we know those habitats might support native species too -making it a great target for future restoration.

Curious what’s growing beneath Delaware’s waters? Learn more or get involved at DelawareSAV.org/volunteer. Every sighting, every sample, every photo helps us understand and protect these vital underwater habitats.

Stay Spooky- and Stay Grassy!

#StayGrassy #Hydrilla #Elodea #InvasiveSpecies #SAVSeekers #DelawareSAV #UnderwaterGrasses #HabitatRestoration #EcosystemBalance #CleanWater #AquaticPlants #DelawareWaters #DelawareEnvironment #DelawareVolunteers #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #WaterStewardship #GetInvolvedDE #SAVWatchers #HabitatHeroes #FieldVolunteers #DelawareRestoration #ScienceForGood #DelawareOutdoors #DelawareWildlife #FirstState #DelawareParks #DelawareNature #InlandBays #DelawareBay

Spooky SAV Spotlight: Hydrilla

Not all monsters lurk in the deep - some grow there!

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) is one of the most prolific aquatic invaders in the U.S. It can grow an inch a day, forming dense mats that block sunlight and crowd out native species. But even this spooky species still does "SAV things" providing cover for fish, stabilizing sediment, and improving water clarity where it grows.

That’s the trick (and the treat): Hydrilla shows us where conditions can support underwater plant growth. When it shows up (or by it being there and facilitating the habitat), we know those habitats might support native species too -making it a great target for future restoration.

Curious what’s growing beneath Delaware’s waters? Learn more or get involved at DelawareSAV.org/volunteer. Every sighting, every sample, every photo helps us understand and protect these vital underwater habitats.

Stay Spooky- and Stay Grassy!

#StayGrassy #Hydrilla #Elodea #InvasiveSpecies #SAVSeekers #DelawareSAV #UnderwaterGrasses #HabitatRestoration #EcosystemBalance #CleanWater #AquaticPlants #DelawareWaters #DelawareEnvironment #DelawareVolunteers #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #WaterStewardship #GetInvolvedDE #SAVWatchers #HabitatHeroes #FieldVolunteers #DelawareRestoration #ScienceForGood #DelawareOutdoors #DelawareWildlife #FirstState #DelawareParks #DelawareNature #InlandBays #DelawareBay

Field days aren’t just about spotting grasses- they’re also about measuring the water they live in.💧

Staff from @delawarednrec and @deseagrant, who co-chair the Delaware Statewide SAV Workgroup (DeSSAV), have been collecting baseline water-quality data to better understand the habitats where SAV thrives.

Temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and water clarity all tell the story of how healthy our waterways really are, helping us learn where underwater plants can grow and tracking changing conditions over time.

Our team collects these measurements alongside SAV observations to build a clearer picture of where SAV can grow - and soon, you can too!

🌿👀 SAV Seekers volunteers will learn how to take real water-quality readings as part of their training this spring. Stay tuned for more details on how to get involved and check for updates on our website at delawaresav.org/volunteer!

📸 DNREC and Delaware Sea Grant staff and interns using a YSI probe, water-quality sensor, and Secchi disk in the field.

#DelawareSAV #SAVSeekers #DelawareSeaGrant #DNREC #CitizenScience #WaterQuality #StayGrassy #DelawareWaters #CommunityScience #SAV #VolunteerDelaware

Field days aren’t just about spotting grasses- they’re also about measuring the water they live in.💧

Staff from @delawarednrec and @deseagrant, who co-chair the Delaware Statewide SAV Workgroup (DeSSAV), have been collecting baseline water-quality data to better understand the habitats where SAV thrives.

Temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and water clarity all tell the story of how healthy our waterways really are, helping us learn where underwater plants can grow and tracking changing conditions over time.

Our team collects these measurements alongside SAV observations to build a clearer picture of where SAV can grow - and soon, you can too!

🌿👀 SAV Seekers volunteers will learn how to take real water-quality readings as part of their training this spring. Stay tuned for more details on how to get involved and check for updates on our website at delawaresav.org/volunteer!

📸 DNREC and Delaware Sea Grant staff and interns using a YSI probe, water-quality sensor, and Secchi disk in the field.

#DelawareSAV #SAVSeekers #DelawareSeaGrant #DNREC #CitizenScience #WaterQuality #StayGrassy #DelawareWaters #CommunityScience #SAV #VolunteerDelaware

At our DeSSAV meeting this week, we asked a fun question: If SAV had a superpower, what would it be?

From “multiplying overnight” to “glowing in the dark,” the answers didn’t disappoint- but the truth is, SAV already has plenty of real-life powers!

Meet our Super SAVs:

💧 The Filter – clears the water by trapping sediment and absorbing excess nutrients.
🦀 The Provider – shelters fish, crabs, and countless small creatures.
⚓️ The Anchor – stabilizes sediment and protects shorelines from erosion.
🫧 The Oxygenator – releases oxygen that keeps aquatic life thriving.

Together, these underwater grasses quietly keep our waterways alive and resilient- true heroes beneath the surface.

We want to hear from you: if YOU could give SAV any superpower, what would it be?

#DeSSAV #DelawareSAV #UnderwaterGrasses #SAVSeekers #CoastalResilience #BlueCarbon #HabitatHeroes #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #DelawareVolunteer

At our DeSSAV meeting this week, we asked a fun question: If SAV had a superpower, what would it be?

From “multiplying overnight” to “glowing in the dark,” the answers didn’t disappoint- but the truth is, SAV already has plenty of real-life powers!

Meet our Super SAVs:

💧 The Filter – clears the water by trapping sediment and absorbing excess nutrients.
🦀 The Provider – shelters fish, crabs, and countless small creatures.
⚓️ The Anchor – stabilizes sediment and protects shorelines from erosion.
🫧 The Oxygenator – releases oxygen that keeps aquatic life thriving.

Together, these underwater grasses quietly keep our waterways alive and resilient- true heroes beneath the surface.

We want to hear from you: if YOU could give SAV any superpower, what would it be?

#DeSSAV #DelawareSAV #UnderwaterGrasses #SAVSeekers #CoastalResilience #BlueCarbon #HabitatHeroes #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #DelawareVolunteer

How many squares can you check off this SAV monitoring bingo card? 👀

Whether you’ve been knee-deep in waders looking for SAV or spend lots of time exploring waterways (recreationally OR other water-based field work), this is your chance to see how your experience stacks up!

Screenshot, mark your bingo, and tag us to show your field day scorecard 🌊

Want to get involve in SAV monitoring in Delaware? Volunteer sign-ups for SAV Seekers are coming soon — stay tuned for details at DelawareSAV.org/volunteer!

#DelawareSAV #SAVSeekers #UnderwaterGrasses #FieldworkBingo #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #DelawareWaters #Bingo

How many squares can you check off this SAV monitoring bingo card? 👀

Whether you’ve been knee-deep in waders looking for SAV or spend lots of time exploring waterways (recreationally OR other water-based field work), this is your chance to see how your experience stacks up!

Screenshot, mark your bingo, and tag us to show your field day scorecard 🌊

Want to get involve in SAV monitoring in Delaware? Volunteer sign-ups for SAV Seekers are coming soon — stay tuned for details at DelawareSAV.org/volunteer!

#DelawareSAV #SAVSeekers #UnderwaterGrasses #FieldworkBingo #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #DelawareWaters #Bingo

This summer, we explored the Brandywine Creek (@brandywinecreekstatepark) with our interns to test out parts of the SAV Seekers monitoring protocol. The SAV Seekers program is Delaware’s first statewide volunteer effort for submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), or underwater grasses.

Why does SAV matter? These plants improve water clarity, stabilize shorelines, support fish and wildlife, and even store carbon, making them a foundation of healthy waterways.

💡 How you can get involved:
Starting spring 2026, we’ll be opening volunteer opportunities to become a certified SAV Seeker. Until then, you can:
🌱 Explore more at www.DelawareSAV.org
🌱 Join the iNaturalist project “Eyes on SAV – Delaware” to share your sightings
🌱 Stay tuned here for updates and training announcements!

(Links in bio)

Together, we’re building the tools and community to better understand and protect Delaware’s underwater forests.

#DelawareSAV #SAVSeekers #DeSSAV #BrandywineCreekStatePark #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #UnderwaterForests #WaterQuality #HabitatRestoration #SAV

This summer, we explored the Brandywine Creek (@brandywinecreekstatepark) with our interns to test out parts of the SAV Seekers monitoring protocol. The SAV Seekers program is Delaware’s first statewide volunteer effort for submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), or underwater grasses.

Why does SAV matter? These plants improve water clarity, stabilize shorelines, support fish and wildlife, and even store carbon, making them a foundation of healthy waterways.

💡 How you can get involved:
Starting spring 2026, we’ll be opening volunteer opportunities to become a certified SAV Seeker. Until then, you can:
🌱 Explore more at www.DelawareSAV.org
🌱 Join the iNaturalist project “Eyes on SAV – Delaware” to share your sightings
🌱 Stay tuned here for updates and training announcements!

(Links in bio)

Together, we’re building the tools and community to better understand and protect Delaware’s underwater forests.

#DelawareSAV #SAVSeekers #DeSSAV #BrandywineCreekStatePark #CitizenScience #CommunityScience #UnderwaterForests #WaterQuality #HabitatRestoration #SAV

Did you know Delaware is now home to its first facility dedicated to Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) seed research and restoration? 🌱

From seed collection to seed processing (turbulating), grow-out and research, this site is designed to bring back the underwater meadows that support clean water, fisheries, and resilient shorelines in the First state.

Stay tuned for more updates as we grow this effort- the best is yet to come!

You can always check out more on our website: DelawareSAV.org

#DelawareSAV #UnderwaterForests #StayGrassy #HabitatRestoration #BlueCarbon #CoastalResilience #DelawareWaters

Did you know Delaware is now home to its first facility dedicated to Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) seed research and restoration? 🌱

From seed collection to seed processing (turbulating), grow-out and research, this site is designed to bring back the underwater meadows that support clean water, fisheries, and resilient shorelines in the First state.

Stay tuned for more updates as we grow this effort- the best is yet to come!

You can always check out more on our website: DelawareSAV.org

#DelawareSAV #UnderwaterForests #StayGrassy #HabitatRestoration #BlueCarbon #CoastalResilience #DelawareWaters

✈️ Welcome aboard flight DeSSAV!

Pick your row:
A) True pondweeds- Potamogeton natans & Potamogeton perfoliatus- both true pondweeds (but they look nothing alike).
B) Invasive hitchhikers- Hydrilla verticillata & Cabomba caroliniana- invasive species that can quickly take over the cabin.
C) The “not-really” pondweeds- Zannichellia palustris & Stuckenia pectinata- often called pondweeds, but not actually in the Potamogeton family (even though they’re harder to tell apart).

Drop your row below 👇 your choice says a lot about your SAV style.

#DelawareSAV #DeSSAV #DelawareWaters #MidAtlantic #UnderwaterGrasses #SAVMonitoring #AquaticPlants #HabitatMatters #HealthyWaters #AquaticEcosystems #CitizenScience #GetInvolved #VolunteerScience #WaterQuality #EnvironmentalEducation #Conservation #Stewardship #ClimateResilience

✈️ Welcome aboard flight DeSSAV!

Pick your row:
A) True pondweeds- Potamogeton natans & Potamogeton perfoliatus- both true pondweeds (but they look nothing alike).
B) Invasive hitchhikers- Hydrilla verticillata & Cabomba caroliniana- invasive species that can quickly take over the cabin.
C) The “not-really” pondweeds- Zannichellia palustris & Stuckenia pectinata- often called pondweeds, but not actually in the Potamogeton family (even though they’re harder to tell apart).

Drop your row below 👇 your choice says a lot about your SAV style.

#DelawareSAV #DeSSAV #DelawareWaters #MidAtlantic #UnderwaterGrasses #SAVMonitoring #AquaticPlants #HabitatMatters #HealthyWaters #AquaticEcosystems #CitizenScience #GetInvolved #VolunteerScience #WaterQuality #EnvironmentalEducation #Conservation #Stewardship #ClimateResilience

Species Highlight: Wild Celery (Vallisneria americana)

From its ribbon-like leaves to its unique dioecious flowers, wild celery is one of the most important freshwater SAV species in Delaware. These underwater meadows provide food and shelter for mussels, snails, crawfish, fish, and waterfowl, while also helping keep our waterways clear and healthy.

Want to learn more or get involved?
🌐Visit: DelawareSAV.org

🌱Contribute: inaturalist.org/projects/eyes-on-sav-delaware

🔎Volunteer: Become a trained SAV Seeker and help monitor Delaware’s underwater grasses.

Together, we can protect and restore these vital habitats!

#DelawareSAV #SAVSeekers #WildCelery #TapeGrass #UnderwaterForests #FreshwaterEcology #HabitatMatters #BlueCarbon #AquaticPlants #VolunteerScience #iNaturalist #CommunityScience #HealthyWatersheds

Species Highlight: Wild Celery (Vallisneria americana)

From its ribbon-like leaves to its unique dioecious flowers, wild celery is one of the most important freshwater SAV species in Delaware. These underwater meadows provide food and shelter for mussels, snails, crawfish, fish, and waterfowl, while also helping keep our waterways clear and healthy.

Want to learn more or get involved?
🌐Visit: DelawareSAV.org

🌱Contribute: inaturalist.org/projects/eyes-on-sav-delaware

🔎Volunteer: Become a trained SAV Seeker and help monitor Delaware’s underwater grasses.

Together, we can protect and restore these vital habitats!

#DelawareSAV #SAVSeekers #WildCelery #TapeGrass #UnderwaterForests #FreshwaterEcology #HabitatMatters #BlueCarbon #AquaticPlants #VolunteerScience #iNaturalist #CommunityScience #HealthyWatersheds

Do you or your organization want to make a lasting impact on Delaware’s waterways?

We’re looking for Program Coordinators to step up and lead local SAV Seekers teams. As a coordinator, you’ll:
✔️ Get certified through our hands-on training
✔️ Recruit and train volunteers
✔️ Help collect data that guides statewide restoration

No prior SAV experience needed- we’ll provide training and support. You just bring your passion for healthy waterways and community leadership!

📩 Email DeSSAV.workgroup@gmail.com to sign up or get more information.

🔗Visit the link in our bio to learn about more ways to volunteer

Together, we can protect and restore the underwater grasses that keep Delaware’s waters clear and full of life. 💧🐟

#SAVSeekers #DelawareWaters #VolunteerScience #CommunityScience #ProtectOurWaters #LeadTheWay #DeSSAV

Do you or your organization want to make a lasting impact on Delaware’s waterways?

We’re looking for Program Coordinators to step up and lead local SAV Seekers teams. As a coordinator, you’ll:
✔️ Get certified through our hands-on training
✔️ Recruit and train volunteers
✔️ Help collect data that guides statewide restoration

No prior SAV experience needed- we’ll provide training and support. You just bring your passion for healthy waterways and community leadership!

📩 Email DeSSAV.workgroup@gmail.com to sign up or get more information.

🔗Visit the link in our bio to learn about more ways to volunteer

Together, we can protect and restore the underwater grasses that keep Delaware’s waters clear and full of life. 💧🐟

#SAVSeekers #DelawareWaters #VolunteerScience #CommunityScience #ProtectOurWaters #LeadTheWay #DeSSAV

South Bethany SAV Project Update

Harvesting widgeon grass in the South Bethany Canals is no small task! It takes careful monitoring, coordinated harvesting, seed processing, and ongoing water quality tracking.

This year, with support from the Town of South Bethany (@southbethanytownhall ), residents, and our partners at the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays (@deinlandbays ), Delaware Sea Grant (@deseagrant ), and DNREC (@delawarednrec ), we’ve gathered critical baseline data on SAV growth and canal conditions while collecting and processing thousands of seeds for future restoration efforts.

These efforts are laying the groundwork for healthier waterways and stronger restoration projects across the First State.

To learn more about some project we work on check out our website at DelawareSAV.org

South Bethany SAV Project Update

Harvesting widgeon grass in the South Bethany Canals is no small task! It takes careful monitoring, coordinated harvesting, seed processing, and ongoing water quality tracking.

This year, with support from the Town of South Bethany (@southbethanytownhall ), residents, and our partners at the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays (@deinlandbays ), Delaware Sea Grant (@deseagrant ), and DNREC (@delawarednrec ), we’ve gathered critical baseline data on SAV growth and canal conditions while collecting and processing thousands of seeds for future restoration efforts.

These efforts are laying the groundwork for healthier waterways and stronger restoration projects across the First State.

To learn more about some project we work on check out our website at DelawareSAV.org

Delaware’s underwater meadows grow in more places than you think- from lakes and ponds to tidal creeks, bays, and estuaries. 🌿🌊

Each habitat supports unique species. Freshwater plants like water stargrass (Heteranthera dubia) keep inland waters clear and full of life, while brackish and estuarine species like widgeon grass (Ruppia maritima) protect our coasts and nurture marine wildlife.

To protect them, we need to know what we have and where we have it. That’s why the DeSSAV Workgroup is launching a new volunteer monitoring protocol- giving community members the tools and training to help track SAV across the state.

Check delawaresav.org/volunteer for upcoming training details and join us in safeguarding Delaware’s SAV from stream to sea!

#DeSSAV
#SAV
#SubmergedAquaticVegetation
#UnderwaterMeadows
#WaterStargrass
#HeterantheraDubia
#WidgeonGrass
#RuppiaMaritima
#StreamToSea
#CleanWaterDE
#DelawareWaters
#DelawareBay
#CoastalConservation
#HabitatRestoration
#WaterQuality
#VolunteerScience
#CitizenScience
#CommunityScience
#ConservationInAction
#DelawareNature

Delaware’s underwater meadows grow in more places than you think- from lakes and ponds to tidal creeks, bays, and estuaries. 🌿🌊

Each habitat supports unique species. Freshwater plants like water stargrass (Heteranthera dubia) keep inland waters clear and full of life, while brackish and estuarine species like widgeon grass (Ruppia maritima) protect our coasts and nurture marine wildlife.

To protect them, we need to know what we have and where we have it. That’s why the DeSSAV Workgroup is launching a new volunteer monitoring protocol- giving community members the tools and training to help track SAV across the state.

Check delawaresav.org/volunteer for upcoming training details and join us in safeguarding Delaware’s SAV from stream to sea!

#DeSSAV
#SAV
#SubmergedAquaticVegetation
#UnderwaterMeadows
#WaterStargrass
#HeterantheraDubia
#WidgeonGrass
#RuppiaMaritima
#StreamToSea
#CleanWaterDE
#DelawareWaters
#DelawareBay
#CoastalConservation
#HabitatRestoration
#WaterQuality
#VolunteerScience
#CitizenScience
#CommunityScience
#ConservationInAction
#DelawareNature

Welcome to the wild world of SAV, Delaware!

That’s Submerged Aquatic Vegetation- underwater plants that help keep our waterways healthy and full of life.

We’re the Delaware Statewide SAV Workgroup (DeSSAV), a workgroup of over 50 members, made up of non-profits, educational institutions, and state and federal agencies - and this is our page!

Here’s what we’re about:
🗺 Mapping SAV
🧪 Research
🌿 Restoration
🙌 Getting the community involved

Stick around for field updates, fun facts, and a closer look at what’s happening under the surface.

Check out the link in our bio for more!

#DeSSAV #SAVlife #UnderwaterForests #DelawareScience #CoastalRestoration #TeamSAV #StayGrassy #HealthyWatersDE
#UnderwaterGrassesDE
#DelawareSAV
#WildlifeIsWildForSAV
#SaveOurSAV

Welcome to the wild world of SAV, Delaware!

That’s Submerged Aquatic Vegetation- underwater plants that help keep our waterways healthy and full of life.

We’re the Delaware Statewide SAV Workgroup (DeSSAV), a workgroup of over 50 members, made up of non-profits, educational institutions, and state and federal agencies - and this is our page!

Here’s what we’re about:
🗺 Mapping SAV
🧪 Research
🌿 Restoration
🙌 Getting the community involved

Stick around for field updates, fun facts, and a closer look at what’s happening under the surface.

Check out the link in our bio for more!

#DeSSAV #SAVlife #UnderwaterForests #DelawareScience #CoastalRestoration #TeamSAV #StayGrassy #HealthyWatersDE
#UnderwaterGrassesDE
#DelawareSAV
#WildlifeIsWildForSAV
#SaveOurSAV

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