Teen Adventure: SAV Monitoring

Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary

Teen Adventure: SAV Monitoring

Once a week we learned about submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) populations around Jug Bay.

Why We Did It:

Learn how SAV affect water quality, by comparing sites with and without SAV and the River water flowing into these areas.
Help restore SAV populations in Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
Document the species found at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary

What We Did:

We conducted experiments to investigate the success of SAV restoration efforts, monitored water quality around these sites, and mapped the distribution of SAV around Jug Bay. We planted SAV in experimental plots.

How We Did It:

We identified which species of SAV were growing in the Patuxent River and mapped their distribution and density. At the same time we conducted Water Quality tests, including Dissolved Oxygen (DO), pH, Nitrogen (Nitrates and Ammonium), Secchi Depth, Total Depth, Flow, and Water and Air Temperature. We collected samples from natural SAV beds, planted (restored) SAV beds, and areas without SAV. We collected water samples from the main channel of the River where it was too deep or SAV.

Our Predictions:

SAV planted in mid-summer would survive best. These plants would have the best growing conditions (temperature and sunlight) and enough time to become established.
Natural SAV beds would have better water quality (higher DO, neutral pH, greater Secchi depths, and less nitrogen) than areas without SAV.

What Did We Find?

Who We Are:

Alex Boyer
Joe Stanley
Bob Sands
Lindsay Albis
Sarah Berkey