A new synthesis of Chesapeake Bay aquatic grasses

Aquatic grasses workshop participantsChesapeake Bay aquatic grass experts convened at a workshop during March to integrate the current understanding of aquatic grass occurrence and abundance. Water quality, biotic and physical factors controlling aquatic grass distribution were reviewed and conceptualized. New approaches and methods of conducting aquatic grass forecasts were discussed in preparation for the 2006 summer forecast. A descriptive paper, newsletter, and website will be produced over the next six months; these will form the basis of a subsequent explanatory paper. The workshop was organized and sponsored by the Integration and Application Network and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. Analytical support is being offered by the Chesapeake Bay Program.