Partnerships for seagrass research and protection

Unfortunately, for large areas of the coast, data on these important habitats is lacking. Few large-scale surveys have been done, and only a handful of ongoing seagrass monitoring programs exist.

Presently, regional planning often proceeds without accurate seagrass information, and therefore, with very minimal understanding of potential effects on these critically important ecosystems.

This project addresses gaps in seagrass knowledge by consolidating existing data, identifying the gaps, producing new data sets, and making data more widely available.

Approach

Project 3.5 will work collaboratively with Traditional Owners, Indigenous rangers, managers, and others to collect and analyse existing data to understand seagrass distribution across northern Australia. It will prioritise regions where there is no data, or minimal information, then undertake field surveys by helicopter, drone or boat.

Emerging monitoring technologies will be evaluated, alongside innovations in modelling and analysis.

Accessibility and useability of data will be increased through information products which will be developed and made publicly available.

Information sharing will be tailored to the various groups that utilise seagrass data.

Variation to Project 3.5 (February 2026)

This project has an approved variation that will begin in 2026. The variation will focus on two main tasks.

First, recently collected seagrass datasets from northern Australia, along with associated data, will be compiled and made accessible through eAtlas for easy use by researchers, managers, and Traditional Owners.

Second, drone and satellite imagery will be analysed to develop a nationally relevant seagrass fragmentation index. This index will provide a sensitive early warning signal of declining ecosystem resilience by tracking changes in seagrass patch size, shape, and distribution.

This next stage of the project builds on a strong foundation. Baseline mapping, data partnerships and drone monitoring methods are already in place.

Completing the data collation and developing the fragmentation index will ensure these resources are fully available and practical for decision-making. Together, they will strengthen the evidence base for assessing seagrass condition for environmental management, policy, and conservation.

The fragmentation index will also complement existing measures of seagrass extent and cover. It will support State of Environment reporting, Blue Carbon assessments and national environmental accounting.

Expected outcomes

• Regional planners and managers supported with accurate information on seagrass distribution.
• Indigenous rangers and Traditional Owners participating in surveys and reporting.
• Innovative technology and processes that support Indigenous rangers and managers in remote areas.

Project location