Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) is an important part of the Hudson River Estuary ecosystem.  Its beds provide shelter and food for young-of-the-year fish, resources for migrating water fowl, and increased dissolved oxygen in the river during the summer.  Since 2003 the Hudson River Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (HRSAV) Project has recruited, trained, and supported citizen scientists who are experienced kayakers and canoeists with a vested interest in the conservation of the Hudson River Estuary.  

Results/Conclusions

Our team of citizen scientists has collected 1235 data points on the species, density, and depth of vegetation at more than 67 sites from Nyack to the Troy Dam.  These data supplement information provided by aerial photographs of the river taken every five years and have contributed to an increased understanding of the dynamic nature of SAV distribution and abundance.  In fact, these data have been instrumental in directing New York State Department of Environmental Conservation policy and regulation about waterfront development. Our poster outlines the key elements of our volunteer program:  volunteer recruitment, standard documented protocol, class room orientation, on the water training, and volunteer recognition.  Several of our volunteers will become part of our new outreach efforts to make towns involved in waterfront revitalization and development more aware of the importance of the SAV beds along their shores.