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Date of Award

Fall 2023

Document Type

Masters Field Project

Department or Program Affiliation

Padilla Bay

Department

Environmental Studies

First Advisor

Hollenhorst, Steven J.

Second Advisor

Yang, Sylvia

Abstract

This paper explores recovery of eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) meadows through seed-based restoration to address declines from natural and anthropogenic disturbances. The study focuses on the Joe Leary meadow site in Padilla Bay, Washington, aiming to (1) determine the spatial distribution of perennial and annual Z. marina, (2) understand variation in flowering shoot density and potential seed production, and (3) compare the phenology of flowering shoots. These objectives were investigated using field-based methods to collect presence/absence transect data for delineation, quadrat-based count data, and monitor seed development. Data collection occurred in the summer throughout the flowering life stage of eelgrass in the site. The study found spatial and temporal variation in the distribution, density, and phenology of flowering perennial and annual populations. Delineation methods revealed that annuals have a similar range in the intertidal as perennials, with differences highlighted in response to potential stress indicators such as proximity to the slough, algal mats, or elevation. Quadrat-based monitoring found annual shoots in the transect higher in the intertidal, above the perennial population. Phenology data indicated that perennial shoots flower about a month prior to annual shoots. While the study advises against using perennial flowering shoots for restoration due to low densities, it emphasizes Joe Leary's potential as a donor site for flowering annuals for seed-based restoration. Careful considerations are crucial to avoid unintended introductions of non-native species. The research concludes with recommendations for refining delineation methods, enhancing understanding of eelgrass population dynamics, and optimizing seed collection strategies for genetically diverse and resilient restoration in the face of climate change.

Type

Text

Keywords

Eelgrass, Zostera marina, intertidal, San Juan Islands, Padilla Bay, Restoration, GIS, population dynamics, ecosystem management, sustainability, donor site, eelgrass meadow

Publisher

Western Washington University

OCLC Number

1415207872

Subject – LCSH

Zostera marina--Washington (State)--Padilla Bay; Estuarine restoration--Washington (State)--Padilla Bay; Ecosystem management--Washington (State)--Padilla Bay

Geographic Coverage

Padilla Bay (Wash.)

Format

application/pdf

Genre/Form

masters theses

Language

English

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

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