The Sound of Harris hosts one of the largest areas of sub tidal seagrass in Scotland. This survey explored existing and historic subtidal beds of seagrass (Zostera marina) to the SE of Isle of Berneray, Western Isles.
Survey locations were informed using historic aerial and satellite imagery, and data gathered by georeferenced drop-down video, PAR sensors and diver-based recording with photography. The survey illustrated the significant, 140 ha, and nationally important extent of the existing seagrass habitat to the SE of Berneray.
The total area of these beds is however in stark contrast to that of former times, which from aerial photography of 1987 shows a reduction of some 197 ha in the last 38 years. Eight former seagrass areas were also examined for characteristics pertinent to potential restoration activities. Over the course of the study 5850 m of transects were run and 690 quadrats observed and processed. The findings of this survey have led to further funding through SMEEF’s Seagrass Meadows Scotland programme, to restore 2.5ha of seagrass in the area.
In 2025 SMEEF was able to provide a grant of £20,000 to fund this survey work using resources from businesses donations.