Over the past few months, residents and visitors to Southern Shores may have noticed accumulations of vegetation along the soundside shoreline, along with the odor that can occur as organic material naturally decomposes. On behalf of the Towns of Duck and Southern Shores, an expert from the Coastal Studies Institute reviewed samples collected from the accumulation in Southern Shores and has confirmed that the material is primarily composed of widgeon grass (Ruppia maritima), a common submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) species found throughout the Currituck Sound. Smaller amounts of horned pondweed (Zannichellia palustris) and sago pondweed (Potamogeton pectinatus) were also identified, along with a mix of naturally occurring terrestrial plant material.
The vegetation was likely uprooted during late fall and winter storm events. Widgeon grass is particularly susceptible to storm-related disturbance because of its relatively shallow root system. Despite this, it is known to recover quickly and plays an important role in the health of the sound. Submerged aquatic vegetation provides critical habitat for fish, crabs, waterfowl, and other wildlife while helping maintain water quality. The presence of washed-up seagrass is a natural part of the coastal ecosystem and can occur following periods of strong winds and wave action.
Residents concerned about the odor may be encouraged to know that the strongest phase of decomposition appears to have passed. Experts report that most of the rapidly decomposing organic material has already broken down, and the smell should continue to diminish.
At this time, significant additional seagrass loss is considered unlikely during the summer months. Historically, larger impacts to submerged aquatic vegetation in Currituck Sound have been associated with nor'easters, which produce sustained winds and wave action over longer periods.
The Town recognizes that seagrass accumulations and the associated odor can be frustrating for some residents. However, experts emphasize that this is a natural process that occurs periodically in coastal ecosystems, particularly following storm events. Submerged aquatic vegetation and the wetlands it supports are valuable natural resources that provide significant environmental benefits, including improved water quality, wildlife habitat, and shoreline resilience. Removal of accumulated seagrass can disrupt these sensitive ecosystems and since seagrass will continue to wash ashore as part of its life cycle, large-scale removal is generally not considered an effective or environmentally responsible long-term solution.
An educational event, The Shore Thing, planned jointly with the Town of Duck and originally scheduled for June, was postponed due to presenter illness. The event will be rescheduled for the fall and will provide residents with an opportunity to hear directly from a panel of coastal and environmental experts about submerged aquatic vegetation, shoreline processes, and soundside ecology.
In the meantime, the Towns of Southern Shores and Duck are jointly producing a short educational video featuring local and regional experts to answer common questions and provide additional information about the important role seagrass plays in the health of the Currituck Sound. The video will be shared on both towns' websites and social media channels once completed.
Residents are encouraged to subscribe to the Town's email newsletter, visit the Town website, and follow the Town on Facebook for updates.