Underwater meadows of eelgrass in Long Island Sound have been in decline for decades. Now, conservationists are turning to clams — and glue — to restore this critical ecosystem.

Volunteers in Clinton, Connecticut are helping the nonprofit Save the Sound restore eelgrass through the S-E-A-S method: Seeds of Eelgrass Attached to Shellfish.

Sabrina Garone / WSHU

Susan Barney is one of about 10 people here to help out today.

“I’m a gardener, so I mainly do inland things, but I was really drawn to the invitation to come and restore eelgrass," she said. "Because who knew that eelgrass cleans water, prevents erosion, and provides habitat? I just thought it was lovely that they invited regular old folks to help restore eelgrass, so I’m here!”

The meadows have lost about 90% of the eelgras

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