Eelgrass model presented at Danish Marine Science Meeting
Sanjina Upadhyay Stæhr of Aarhus University presented OBAMA-NEXT’s information product on eelgrass species distribution model at the 23rd Danish Marine Science Meeting (Havforskersmøde), drawing attention to the role of predictive mapping tools in supporting coastal restoration and marine spatial planning.
The information product uses machine learning and long-term monitoring data to generate high-resolution spatial predictions of eelgrass (Zostera marina) presence and depth limits. The tool also provides confidence maps to help assess the reliability of the predictions.
Applied at Learning Site 2 – Kattegat, the model has reached Technology Readiness Level 6, indicating it has been successfully demonstrated in a relevant marine environment. This makes it a practical resource for implementing key European environmental directives, including the EU Nature Restoration Law, Habitats Directive, and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, among others.
By integrating statistical modelling techniques and stakeholder needs, this information product exemplifies how OBAMA-NEXT is bridging the gap between advanced ecosystem modelling and real-world policy requirements.
