Submersed aquatic vegetation (SAV) - Whales and dolphins in Virginia Marine environment

SAV are underwater plants which usually thrive in shallow waters less than 6 feet deep, and they are an important habitat for fish and shellfish, especially blue crab. As they are also an important food source for several species of waterfowl, it is vital not to damage these areas.

Scientific studies show that these beds can be scarred by a boat's propeller or by a larger vessel that runs aground, so boaters should be extra-careful when navigating through these beds.

Stay 50 feet away from dolphins and 300 feet from whales.