Underwater Grass Habitat Expanded by over 1000% in 2025 in the South River!

Have you heard the BIG news for underwater grasses in the Chesapeake Bay, especially right here in the South River?

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 2025 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) data shows that SAV in the South River increased by more than 1,000% last year (check out the survey results from DNR, linked here)! This means, more vital habitat for your favorite South River critters, more shoreline protection, and, improved water quality.

The Arundel Rivers team, alongside our partners from DNR and Anne Arundel Community College sustainably harvesting Horned Pondweed Seeds

Even more excitingly, part of that increase is directly connected to a restored SAV bed grown from processed restoration seed planted by Arundel Rivers Federation and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. It's exciting proof that hands-on SAV restoration can produce real, measurable results for our rivers.

A thriving SAV bed in the South River

We'll continue collecting, planting, monitoring, and doing everything we can to help bring thriving underwater grass beds back to the South, West, and Rhode Rivers!

Want to learn more about our SAV restoration? Check out this one-pager with information about our SAV restoration process, and ways to get involved.