Marine nature restoration in Vejle Fjord

The goal of project Sund Vejle Fjord is to kick-start marine ecosystems by restoring lost eelgrass beds, mussel banks and stone reefs in Vejle Fjord.

Because of pollution, it is estimated, that 90% of eelgrass populations (seagrass) has been lost from Danish ecosystems. Eelgrass plays a vital role as key habitat for a range of marine species and fish fry, but also as an important factor in terms of mitigating climate change, as well as incorporating CO2 in its stems, leaves and rhizomes. Historically huge numbers of rocks have been removed from the marine ecosystems in Denmark to be used for construction of port facilities and coastal protection. Also, blue mussel beds have been lost due to eutrophication. Loss of habitat has caused bottom feeding fishes like cod to completely disappear, resulting in an invasion of crabs and broken food chains. Following actions are employed:

1) Planting eelgrass (transplantation of shoots into Vejle Fjord:
This is done by the help of many volunteers in june every year. So far, 6 hectares have been planted in Vejle Fjord.

2) Blue mussel production on lines to be submerged onto the bottom as new biogenic reefs:
Harvest and outlaying of blue mussel take place late autumn, maybe late October depending on how many seastars attach our plant. So far, 33 hectares of blue mussel bed have been established.

3) Establishment of stone reefs:
In June 2022, 12,000 tons of rocks have carefully been laid out onto the bottom of Vejle Fjord. The 5 new stone reefs constitute hides for cod and other biodiversity and shelter for eelgrass. Reefs have since legally been protected from future fishing. Including the conservation zone, stone reefs constitute of total of 54 hectares of protected seabed.

4) Out fishing crabs:
Removing crabs from the ecosystem proves to be a Sisyphus's task. After two labor-intensive seasons removing of a total of 35 tons of craps was interrupted. Impact was minimal. The return of the cod will have to do the job in the future.

5) Involvement and dissemination
Sund Vejle Fjord strongly supports all initiatives that could help raise public debate, engagement and impact. Awareness raising initiatives are very important. It is important that the public feels a certain ownership and dedication if we are to continue motivating local - as well as national -politicians and fundings.