NOAA Fisheries
Service
Galveston
Laboratory
4700 Avenue U
Galveston, TX
77551-5997
409.766.3500
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Joy Merino, Lawrence Rozas, Tom Minello and Pete Sheridan Terracing is a relatively new wetland restoration technique that uses existing bottom sediments to form ridges or terraces at marsh elevation in appropriate locations. A terrace field composed of intertidal levees laid out in a checkerboard pattern (with open corners) is constructed, and levees are planted with marsh vegetation. Marsh levees are separated by shallow open water to maximize marsh edge habitat.
Seagrasses or other species of submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) may be planted in, or may naturally colonize, subtidal areas between terraces to enhance subtidal habitat within terrace fields. The objective of this research was to evaluate marsh terracing as a method for restoring estuarine nursery habitats. We quantified and compared densities of nekton (fishes, shrimps, and crabs) in natural and terraced areas at Pierce Marsh near Hitchcock, Texas and at Galveston Island State Park. Nekton samples were collected in Fall 2001 and Spring 2002 at randomly selected sites using a 1-m2 drop sampler in each of the following habitat types: marsh edge inside terrace cells, open water inside cells, natural marsh edge, and undisturbed open water. We analyzed the data from these samples and are preparing manuscripts that synthesize and report the research results. Data from this research can be used to predict the habitat value that may be anticipated in areas where new terracing projects are now being planned. Funds were provided by the NOAA Restoration Center and the Apex Barges NRDA Trustees. Publications:
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