Islanders help out in eelgrass exploration project

Beep ran its first research walkover and snorkel at Cobo beach yesterday and it was open to islanders of all ages.

The group’s main objective was to start filling the gaps in knowledge about eelgrass research that has occurred in Guernsey.

Once plentiful, people used to harvest eelgrass to make items such as mattresses. Diseases across the 1900s then led to eelgrass population declining.

‘We’re finding out where it’s left and in what condition it’s in,’ said biodiversity officer Julia Henney.

The plant, which is a strain of seagrass, has a positive impact on the local environment as it creates habitats and improves water quality by acting as a filter. It is also a food source and has a variety of characteristics that reduces pollution.

One of its most important characteristics is that it can absorb and trap large amounts of carbon, with all types of seagrass absorbing 10% of the ocean’s carbon per year.

It also acts as a habitat for commercial fish which increase local fishermen's yields.

‘Eelgrass is very important for our biodiversity,’ said Ms Henney.

Along with gathering information, Beep wants to preserve the island’s existing eelgrass population and will use the information gathered to see if and where it is possible to start restoring it.

Seagrass research has also risen in the UK and Swansea University has led a restoration and research project to which Guernsey has donated seeds to.

Beep also organised a walkover in Alderney at Longis Bay to spread research and to paint a clearer picture on eelgrass status across the Bailiwick.

The walkovers happened in half-term, accommodating all ages and are likely to become a regular event.

Ms Henney said that this was hopefully the first of many and she had plans for other walkovers in the future.