County awarded 500,000 for eelgrass project

Pierce County Planning & Public Works has been awarded a significant $500,000 grant to enhance eelgrass monitoring along the county's shorelines, a crucial effort for marine ecosystem health. Eelgrass serves as a primary indicator of the health of the Puget Sound's marine nearshore habitat, sustaining diverse food webs and providing essential habitats for various marine species. Beginning this summer, the county will partner with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources to collect data on marine vegetation using underwater videography at approximately 180 sites. The results will be instrumental in mapping eelgrass distribution, contributing to an update of the Shoreline Master Program, due for completion in 2029. This project aligns with the county's Sustainability 2030 Plan, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% from 2015 levels.

The funding comes from the Environmental Protection Agency as part of a broader initiative to enhance shoreline and estuary health in the Puget Sound. By focusing on eelgrass, the project underscores its role in supporting salmon populations and maintaining marine biodiversity. This collaboration exemplifies proactive steps toward environmental preservation and climate action in the region.