In previous years, much knowledge has been gained about large seagrass (Zostera marina). This year, we are focusing on strengthening the seagrass fields, especially south of Ameland. At this location, the trial fields with seagrass have developed well over the past years. For sowing the seeds, we use, among other things, a modified caulking gun and a hand-powered seeder.

New experiments for small seagrass

Additionally, new experiments are starting this year for small seagrass research (Zostera noltii), aimed at gaining knowledge about success factors for this type of seagrass and taking further steps in restoration. We are experimenting with the most efficient way to handle seagrass seeds. We also investigate how both types of seagrass can strengthen each other.

Seeds from Germany and Griend

For the seagrass restoration in the Wadden Sea, seeds have been harvested from the seagrass fields in Germany this year, as in previous years. Due to less donor material being available, approximately 100,000 seeds will be sown this year, which is less than in 2024 when 1 million seagrass seeds were sown. Because the seagrass field at Griend is growing well, seagrass seeds could also be harvested and resown there last year. This is an important step in sustainably restoring seagrass fields and obtaining own donor material. The expectation is that when more seagrass is restored in the future, seeds from the seagrass field at Griend will naturally flow towards Germany. Thus, the restoration of seagrass contributes positively not only to our Wadden Sea but also to that of our neighboring countries.

Help from the public

This year, we are seeking help from residents and visitors in seagrass research. By reporting when seagrass is seen outside the trial fields, during mudflat walking, drying out, or a beach walk, residents and visitors can play an important role in our research. This helps us gain insight into the growth and distribution of seagrass. To actively involve more people in the research, we are also distributing an information leaflet this year with a call to report seagrass sightings. More information about the project can be found on the page about Wadden Sea seagrass. Volunteers also help sow seagrass near Ameland.

5-year project

We started in 2022 with the 5-year project for seagrass restoration in the Wadden Sea and the Zeeland Delta. Witteveen+Bos, the University of Groningen, The Fieldwork Company, and Altenburg & Wymenga are working on this under the assignment of Rijkswaterstaat. The ultimate goal is to permanently restore seagrass in the Wadden Sea and the Southwestern Delta.