The research team will compare the ecological performance and genetic diversity of restored vs. natural salt marshes. Restoration of salt marsh after die-off is an important tool for conservation implemented with multiple strategies. By analyzing soil, wave buffering capacity, plant stem density and height, and value as nursery habitat across 23 salt marsh locations, the team aims to evaluate which restoration strategies best replicate the ecological integrity of salt marshes.
S.C. Sea Grant Funded Research
Assessing Ecological Functioning and Genetic Diversity of Natural and Restored South Carolina Salt Marshes
Funded: 2026-2028
Principal Investigator: Erik Sotka, College of Charleston
Co-Principal Investigators: Allan Strand, College of Charleston