Eelgrass Survey Captures Image of Schooling Fish in Penobscot Bay, Maine

Nearview conducted #eelgrass surveys in Penobscot Bay this past week for the Maine DEP. During UAS survey we coincidentally imaged nature in action – an impressive tornado of hundreds of schooling fish in shallow water. We are uncertain of species, but possibly #atlanticherring #alewives or #menhaden. Unfortunately, nearly all the areas we surveyed, which were formerly covered with eelgrass (an important habitat for spawning fish) are now barren substrate. A highly sensitive ocean plant, monitoring the presence and health of eelgrass is important to understanding environmental change and water quality. #seagrass #penobscotbay #maine #dronesforgood #uas #fisheries