ORCP's Aquatic Preserve Program maintains continuous water quality monitoring stations around the state where data are collected in 15-minute intervals for eight parameters (water temperature, specific conductivity, salinity, dissolved oxygen percent, dissolved oxygen mg/L, depth, pH and turbidity). These sites are established as long-term monitoring locations and more than 50% of the stations have over 10 years of data. 

Seagrass and macroalgal percent cover by species began in 2022, Braun-Blanquet method used prior to 2022, presence, density of bay scallops and sea urchins, epiphyte density on seagrass blades, bottom sediment type. Temperature (C), Salinity (ppt), Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L), and pH (SU) included since 2016. Depth (m), secchi (m) and canopy height (cm) are additional parameters recorded in the Nature Coast AP seagrass data.

The Ecosystem Resilience Evaluation (ERE) for Big Bend Seagrasses Aquatic Preserve was a collaborative process designed to help better understand the preserve’s vulnerabilities and prepare for future environmental changes. It brought together best available science, local knowledge, and perspectives form research mangers, community members, and people who depend on Big Bend’s coastal environment. The ERE provided a framework for proactive, informed management and planning for the future of the preserve.