Greenhouse gas emissions constitute a major topic of discussion in environmental science. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding how seagrass beds release gases such as methane and nitrous oxide. Matthew Oreska of the University of Virginia plans to study restored Zostera marina beds in Virginia and publish the first greenhouse gas release measurements for such a system. The results of this project could influence efforts to expand seagrass restoration if they can prove that greenhouse gas emissions are negligible. Oreska will be working with his outreach mentor to organize discussions with stakeholders including representatives from VIMS, the Nature Conservancy and the Virginia Marine Resources Commission.
Fellow: Matthew Oreska (UVA)
Advisor: Karen McGlathery (UVA)
Outreach Mentor: Steve Emmett-Mattox (Restore America’s Estuaries)
