Plymouth Sound and Estuaries SAC Seagrass Condition Assessment 2012

This map is the result of a combination of drop-down/towed video (DDTV) and diver surveys were carried out on the seagrass beds within Plymouth Sound SAC. The DDTV surveys were carried out by Ecospan Environmental Ltd, and the diver surveys by Natural England. The principal aim of the surveys was to obtain standardised biological information for the seagrass beds within the SAC, and to compare these data with previous studies (where possible) for the purpose of condition monitoring of the seagrass sub-feature. An additional objective was to review DDTV and diving methods in order to assess the feasibility of using only one method in future condition assessments. The study was also intended as a pilot for a standardised monitoring protocol for assessing the density of Zostera marina under the requirements of the Water Framework Directive.