Seagrass receded 30 feet on average over the last year at 85 spots along the lagoon, according to an annual survey. Scientist say the longer-term trend shows the grass has been growing steadily for several years, but recent decline may have meant millions of dollars lost from the local economy. Each acre of sea grass is critical habitat for over 10,000 fish, with a local economic impact of over $12,000 a year. Fish and shellfish use the grasses for food and shelter. The lush grass that lines the lagoon shoreline is considered a good indicator of the estuary’s health and water quality. Grasses grow better when the water is clear, clean and has the right mix of salt and fresh water. More rain brings pollution runoff and dirt into the lagoon, clouding the water and reducing plants’ photosynthesis (See Lagoon Monitor pg. 6). There is an estimated 70,000 acres of seagrass in the 156-mile lagoon. Between 1943 and 1992 the lagoon lost 70 percent of its seagrass in the 50 miles from NASA Causeway to Grant in Brevard County with 18 percent lost lagoon-wide. Since then seagrass have recovered near inlets and undeveloped areas like Merritt Island Wildlife Sanctuary.