This project trialled a novel mangrove pod design that prevented wave action, thereby promoting mangrove establishment. The project also aimed to engage with local communities and stakeholders to promote awareness of nature-based coastal defences. 210 pods were deployed, each with a single mangrove seed or seedling inside. 21% of seedlings had sprouted just 41 days after deployment. As of mid 2022, mangroves are surviving and monitoring is still ongoing to measure any long-term impacts on shoreline erosion. The project was completed by Melbourne University’s National Centre for Coasts and Climate in partnership with Hobsons Bay council. It was funded by a Climate Change Innovation Grant from the Victorian Department of Land Water and Planning. Related projects at Grantville and Lang Lang, VIC were also funded with this grant.

Mangroves

Method: Hybrid, Planting: direct seeding

Mangrove species: Avicennia marina

Planting density: 1 seed per pod

Seedling age at planting (months): 0, 12

Hybrid structure: Mangrove planting pods

Hybrid structure height (m): 0.3; 0.4

Hybrid structure width (m): 29-35