Integrating acoustic and optical remote sensing for SAV mapping in a turbid estuary

In coastal environments, submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) can provide valuable ecosystem services, from coastline protection and habitat provision to carbon sequestration. However, the coastal area inhabited by SAV is declining worldwide due to natural and anthropogenic stressors. In order to support management and restoration efforts of these systems, SAV dynamics can be explored via time-series remote sensing. Nevertheless, dynamic coastal environments present challenges, such as varying turbidity and tidal ranges, therefore requiring a multi-tier, multi-technique approach to accurately capture SAV extent. This study utilizes both acoustic and optical remote sensing instrumentation to create a seasonal time series of SAV cover at a turbid, shallow Eastern Pacific estuary. The integration of drone, sonar, and satellite imagery allows for rapid and low-cost SAV mapping. The methodology developed in this study can potentially aid in creating blue carbon inventories, site selection for seagrass restoration, and robust SAV monitoring.