Nantucket launches eelgrass management plan to protect declining marine habitat

In a recent meeting of the Harbor & Shellfish Advisory Board held on June 17, 2025, significant discussions centered around the urgent need for an eelgrass management plan for Nantucket Harbor. The meeting highlighted the alarming decline in eelgrass coverage, which has dropped from an average of 33% in 2006 to just 13% in 2024. This decline poses a serious threat to the local marine ecosystem, as eelgrass is crucial for supporting fish populations and maintaining the health of the harbor.

The plan, which has been developed with private funding from the Great Harbor Yacht Club, is unique in its expedited timeline, having progressed rapidly since funding was secured in January. A working group, including experts from UMass Boston and the Nantucket Land and Water Council, has been instrumental in drafting the plan. The group has conducted extensive research, including benthic surveys at 44 sites across Nantucket Harbor, to assess the current state of eelgrass and identify historical coverage levels.

During the meeting, board members discussed the importance of prioritizing protection measures over restoration efforts, given that only 13% of restoration projects are successful and they often come with high costs. The plan aims to address various stressors affecting eelgrass, including environmental changes and human activities such as anchoring in eelgrass beds. The board emphasized the need for community involvement in refining the recommendations outlined in the draft plan, which is open for public comment until June 22.

The discussions also touched on the potential for a dredge study scheduled for September, which will compare different dredging methods and their impacts on eelgrass. While the current situation is concerning, there is a glimmer of hope as recent data suggests that the rate of eelgrass decline may be stabilizing.

The board underscored the cultural and ecological significance of eelgrass to the Nantucket community, linking its health to the local fishing industry and broader environmental sustainability. As the plan moves forward, the board is committed to engaging the community in ongoing discussions to ensure the protection and restoration of this vital marine resource.