Such underwater forests provide shelter to hundreds of organisms, and can also protect shorelines from erosion. However, in the last few decades, large swaths of aquatic vegetation have disappeared around the world, including 100 million acres of wetlands, and thousands of acres of seagrass and kelp beds, in the United States.

Now researchers at MIT have developed a simple model that can help scientists understand how and when sediments move through a region of aquatic vegetation, such as a wetland. The researchers say engineers may use this model to design better ways to restore seagrass, mangroves, and other underwater plant beds.

Read More

How to Improve Your Properties Shoreline:

• Install a buffer zone – Leave or plant a buffer of natural vegetation can reduce erosion, maintain water quality, and provide habitat for wildlife

• Native plants. Leave or plant native aquatic plants to help support lake wildlife and minimize erosion

• Limit turfgrass- turfgrass has shallow roots and requires lots of maintenance

• Minimize impervious surfaces such as concrete or asphalt- this will decrease the amount of run-off containing chemicals from getting into the lake

• Leave fallen trees- fallen trees in the water will provide habitat for fish and wildlife

• Use minimal sand- minimize the size of your sandy beach to allow for more natural vegetation onshore and in the water

• Practice bioengineering- also known as lakescaping, is a method using native plants, biodegradable products and other natural materials (rock) to provide a stable shoreline

Read More