Underwater in Salem Sound Lecture Series: Underwater at Devereux Beach

With 30% of Massachusetts' population living in coastal communities, population growth continues to stress water quality and marine habitats for recreational and economically valuable fish species. Since over the next several decades, flooding and erosion from sea level rise is projected to expose many communities to greater risks, there is interest in developing infrastructure solutions that provide both aquatic habitat and shoreline protection. Artificial reefs have been used effectively in the US to attenuate wave energy and to provide important habitat. However, potential sites should be carefully assessed to avoid unintended impacts. Dr. Jonathan Grabowski of Northeastern University?s Marine Science will share the results of his initial sampling efforts ? both biological and physical environments ? off the coast of Marblehead's Devereux Beach and the Boston Harbor Islands. Jon?s study results will serve as baselines for potential artificial reefs that if built could possibly help reduce the effects of storm energy on existing infrastructure while enhancing marine habitats. Free and open to the public, this is the last in the 2017 Underwater in Salem Sound Lecture Series. This event is co-sponsored by and held at the Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant Street in Marblehead, MA. For more information contact Salem Sound Coastwatch at info@salemsound.org or call 978-741-7900.