This is SeaTalk: Ocean News from the University of Delaware.

As summer wanes and days grow shorter, the lush plants of the region’s wetlands fade from green to brown. But they’re not done working yet. Their decomposition adds nutrients to the ecosystem and builds up the marshy soil, keeping the diverse habitats above surrounding waters. However, in many places rising sea levels are outpacing the ability of these plants to rebuild the earth beneath them. As they drown, these natural treasures are lost, so Delaware Sea Grant researchers are working to identify the best varieties of native plant species to take on the rising waters, and keep Delaware’s vital wetlands standing tall. This is SeaTalk, a public service announcement from the University of Delaware, the Delaware Sea Grant College Program, and this station.