Board endorses pilot to install 20–25 eelgrass‑friendly moorings; pledge of letter of support

Presenters from the Nantucket Land & Water Council asked the advisory board for endorsement of a pilot to replace conventional mooring gear with eelgrass‑friendly anchors for up to 20–25 vessels in shallow eelgrass habitat. Emily and RJ explained the pilot would cover purchase costs for gear so that participants are not charged, and that the project focuses on boats under about 25 feet in roughly 8 feet of water in targeted eelgrass patches.

Speakers described prior tests: a 17‑foot test mooring installed in 2022 using a pyramid anchor and Eco‑rode held for three seasons without scouring nearby eelgrass. Participants discussed technical details — holding power, potential for chain wrap, maintenance and removal — and compared pyramid anchors (higher holding power) with helix anchors and mushroom anchors. Cost differences were raised (examples: a locally made pyramid anchor quoted at roughly $1,500 vs. an alternative at about $500), and board members said professional evaluation by local mooring handlers would be important.

After technical Q&A the board made and carried a motion to endorse the trial and to provide a short, supportive letter for the grant request; the motion (moved by Mister DeCosta and seconded by Mister Sherlund) passed unanimously. The board asked presenters to return or to bring a draft endorsement letter for review.

What’s next: the Council will notify mooring handlers, refine the pilot area with updated maps and drone imagery, seek grant funding from the Great Harbor Yacht Club Foundation and proceed with participant recruitment if funded.