Macroalgae

Seaweeds (a.k.a. – macroalgae) are a diverse group of algae represented by a wide range of growth forms. In general, seaweeds are divided into 3 groups based on their color, green, brown or red, though colors range greatly.

While seaweeds share some characteristics of “higher” plants, they lack the complex reproductive structures (flowers) and specialized functional tissues (roots, stems, and leaves) of seagrasses and land plants. Seaweeds reproduce asexually (vegetative growth) and sexually (release of spores).

Algal Blooms

Excessive nutrient inputs - like nitrogen - can cause algae blooms. Green macroalgae grows fastest in response to an overabundance of nutrients. The macroalga species Ulva lactuca, or Sea lettuce, is one of the most common macroalgae species to cause blooms. When it “blooms” in nutrient-rich waters, it reproduces quickly, fragments and continues to grow until it outcompetes itself, creating a “mat” on the bottom which begins to decompose. The decomposing macrolagae reduces oxygen and releases nitrogen back into the waterbody, continuing the cycle. These conditions (known as eutrophic) threaten the health of marine ecosystems.

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Contributions at all levels will be directed toward our Macroalgae + Water Quality restoration, research, and education initiatives. Back to the Bays is an Initiative of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, a registered 501(c)(3). Our EIN is 11-6081424 and contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

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Back to the Bays has a new base in Sag Harbor!
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Back to the Bays has a new base in Sag Harbor!
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Redwood Marina Sag Harbor

We are honored to be the stewards of Back to the Bays Center for Education + Stewardship at Redwood Marina in Sag Harbor!

Thanks to the ongoing support of Southampton Town Supervisor Maria Moore, the Town Council, Town Community Preservation office, and our partnership with Sag Harbor Village.

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Upcoming Events

Recent Projects

Hog Creek Macroalgae Removal

Made possible by East Hampton Town’s Community Preservation Fund (CPF). The CPF grant supports our remediation effort in Hog Creek, reducing groundwater nitrogen inputs. Located in Springs, Hog Creek provides essential habitat for wildlife and a welcome space for recreational activities.

CCE Marine Program identified sites surrounding Hog Creek where the highest levels of groundwater nutrients enter the waterbody. At these sites, our groundwater experts installed and manage permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) that significantly lessen the amount of nitrogen in groundwater before it enters Hog Creek.

As part of this effort, East Hampton schools were engaged with free lessons on seaweed, why they are important, but also what happens when our waters are unbalanced. Pressed seaweed and other interpretations of seaweed were presented as an art show in July of 2024 at Ashawagh Hall.

CCE + Macroalgae

Past Projects

  • CCE completed a macroalgae bioextraction pilot project in Accabonac Harbor in 2018. Results varied, with the most growth and largest harvests over groundwater seepage points.

  • Coming Soon

  • Coming Soon