Science Projects

Science projects include on-the-ground activities initatives to assess, understand, protect, and restore the Delaware Estuary. For more information on our watershed-based initiatives such as climate adaptation planning and State of the Estuary assessments, please see Science Programs.

Delaware Estuary Benthic Inventory (DEBI)

DEBI seeks to create a comprehensive inventory and description of the benthic ecosystem in the tidal portion of the Delaware Estuary, extending from the mouth of Delaware Bay upwards of the Delaware/Pennsylvania state line. Ultimately, this benthic characterization will consist of a complete bathymetric image of the Estuary’s bottom conditions, including spatial and temporal distributions of principal physical and biological components.

DEBI Fact sheet

Photo Gallery
Delaware Estuary Living Shoreline Initiative (DELSI)

DELSI pilot project was initiated in cooperation with Rutgers University to stabilize the eroding shorelines of tidal marshes using natural intertidal reef communities comprised of shellfish such as mussels. Shellfish reefs protect eroding edges of marshes to combat sea level rise, damage from boat wakes, and other problems that contribute to loss and degradation of marshes. To accomplish this, a variety of all natural materials, such as coconut fiber bio-logs and mats, bagged clutch, and wooden stakes are positioned in high and mid intertidal zones. 
DELSI Fact sheet

Photo Gallery

Freshwater Mussel Restoration Program (FMRP)

North America is home to the greatest biodiversity of native freshwater mussels in the world (more than 300 species). Mussels perform critical natural services by filtering sediments and pathogens, providing habitat and enabling light penetration necessary for plant growth. They are also important bio-indicators which scientists use to evaluate environmental health. Tragically, freshwater mussels are among the most imperiled taxa in the US, with nearly 75% being under special conservation status.

FMRP is a collaborative endeavor to rebuild the overall population vigor of native mussel species. Phase I consists of caging protocols to test for reestablishment suitability. Once an area is determined suitable, Phase II involves the propagation and re-introduction of mussels into rivers like the Brandywine.

FMRP Fact sheet

FMRP Photo Gallery



Delaware Estuary Information Gateway (DEIG)


The DEIG is a "one-stop-shop" online information clearinghouse for environmental information, maps, studies, reports and web-links. Its design allows users access information through either a geographic-based portal or a topic-based portal, and find information appropriate for every audience level.

Enter the DEIG

DEIG Fact sheet

DEIG Poster Presentation