New Study to Evaluate Lynnhaven River Ecosystem Restoration (USA)

A feasibility report and integrated environmental assessment, or EA, have been prepared to describe the findings of the Lynnhaven River basin ecosystem restoration study and to assess the potential impacts of the project on the Lynnhaven River basin and surrounding area.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate ecosystem restoration within the Lynnhaven River basin and to develop the most suitable restoration plan.

The plan that resulted from this study includes the restoration of approximately 38 acres of wetlands and the planting of 94 acres of sea grasses, also called submerged aquatic vegetation, or SAV. The study also recommends the reintroduction of bay scallops in 22 acres of the Lynnhaven River once sea grass becomes established in the river basin.

The last element of the plan includes the construction of 31 acres of hard-reef habitat.

In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act, the feasibility report and integrated EA must be available to the public in the affected area for 30 days for review and comment. The public comment period will begin on April 26 and end on May 26, 2013.

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Press Release, January 30, 2014