Members of the Eastport-South Manor Science Honor Society recently volunteered in an eelgrass remediation initiative. They collaborated with partners at SAVE Environmental on the project.
The organization is credited with developing the eelgrass-based restoration technique associated with Zostera marina in scientific circles.
A vital component of coastal ecosystems across the United States, eelgrass has declined dramatically in New York State waters, according to information provided by the district.
Throughout the exercise, students learned firsthand a specialized method created by Robert Vasiluth of SAVE Environmental. The technique involves attaching eelgrass seeds to live clams using biodegradable, nontoxic reef glue.
Once placed into the bay, the clams naturally burrow into the sediment, planting the seeds directly into suitable habitat where new growth can thrive.
Through careful instruction and hands-on teamwork, students prepared more than 2,000 clams for distribution over the coming weeks, contributing meaningfully to a restoration effort that has already shown promising results in regional waters.
Vasiluth also provided students with essential background on the broader ecological goals of the project, namely its role in supporting the long-term health of the South Shore of Long Island.
His presentation highlighted how community-led environmental projects can produce measurable improvements, and he emphasized that student participation directly supports ongoing conservation research and fieldwork.
The group plans to continue its volunteer efforts in the spring, when additional planting and monitoring activities will take place.
Eastport-South Manor Director of K–12 Science Dr. Jessica Mintz commended Science Honor Society co-advisors Robert Bolen and Kelly Spadafora and their students for this impressive commitment to environmental stewardship.
She noted that projects like this demonstrate how the district provides authentic scientific experiences that inspire learning, foster responsibility, and connect students to the local environment.
Their dedication continues to strengthen environmental awareness within the community and in general.