Georgia Southern grad student researches different planting treatment effects on Tybee Island sand dunes

Jun 10, 2021

2 min

The sand dunes of Tybee Island have taken a beating in recent hurricane seasons. Georgia Southern University biology graduate student Shannon Matzke is researching ways to combat the destruction of the dunes for her restoration project by collecting data on the effects of various planting techniques to see which technique best increases the longevity of the dunes.


As a part of the project, Matzke collects monthly data on the growth and survival of plants, as well as on the sand accumulation associated with different planting densities and groups of species. She also spends time analyzing data, exploring new techniques and tools to use in the field, researching dunes and vegetation, and conducting outreach for the project.



“Working on the beach has been such a fun experience,” Matzke said. “It has also been rewarding to learn new techniques and how to use new equipment to answer more questions about the success of the restoration project. Perhaps my favorite part though has been the outreach associated with my project. The overall dune construction and beach nourishment is so important to island locals, and I’ve enjoyed being able to explain how my work fits in with the larger project.”


Of the plants surveyed, 95% survived the first growing season. On average, plants doubled in height and canopy cover when compared to their size when initially planted. Matzke is also collecting data in areas of the constructed dune that were left bare to compare against the vegetated sites. Unlike the vegetated dunes, bare sites are experiencing erosion, which further relates the importance of adding native vegetation to any new dune construction.


Matzke said she was drawn to Georgia Southern and the biology department because of proximity to the coast. She also appreciated her advisor Lissa Leege, Ph.D., who has worked with native and endangered plant species.


“I am so glad that I chose to earn my master’s at Georgia Southern because I have been able to make connections with researchers inside and outside of my department, as well as with industry and government professionals,” she said. “I have also enjoyed being able to work on Tybee and the convenience of having the Armstrong campus close to where I live in Savannah.”




Matze, who will graduate in fall 2021, hopes to continue her work with native plant ecology.


“After I graduate from Georgia Southern, I’d like to work for a state or local agency continuing in the natural resources management field,” Matzke said. “I am interested in continuing working on invasive species research, endangered plant conservation and habitat restoration using native species. My research at Georgia Southern is the perfect introductory experience to the type of work that I would like to continue doing.”


If you're a journalist looking to learn more about this exciting research — simply reach out to Georgia Southern Director of Communications Jennifer Wise at jwise@georgiasouthern.edu.


You might also like...

Check out some other posts from Georgia Southern University

1 min

Covering the race for the White House? Georgia Southern's presidency expert can help

It has been far from a quiet summer on the American political scene. Each day seems to bring a different twist of turn for both parties seeking to claim power in the upcoming November elections. And if you're covering - Georgia Southern University political science professor Joshua Kennedy, Ph.D., is here to help with any question you may have, angle you're looking to explore or simply be a reliable, informed and objective source for your stories. Kennedy's principal area of study and teaching is in American politics, with a more particular focus on the presidency and the federal bureaucracy. His research has appeared in such outlets as American Politics Research, Research and Politics and Presidential Studies Quarterly, and he is a renowned expert for local, regional and national media when it comes to the American presidency. So if you have a story to file between now and November 05 - simply click on Joshua Kennedy's icon now to arrange an interview today.

2 min

Naronda Wright elected President of NAGAP, the Association for Graduate Enrollment Management

Naronda Wright, Ed.D., associate dean of Graduate Student Services in Georgia Southern University’s Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies, was recently elected president of NAGAP, the Association for Graduate Enrollment Management. She is the first African American to hold the role of president in the association. Wright, a seasoned professional in the field of graduate enrollment management, brings more than 15 years of experience to her new role. In her position at Georgia Southern, Wright has been instrumental in implementing innovative recruitment strategies and enhancing student services, contributing significantly to the growth and diversity of the graduate programs. Under her leadership for NAGAP, Wright plans to focus on expanding the association’s reach, enhancing member engagement and advancing the association’s strategic initiatives aimed at supporting its members’ professional development. “I am deeply honored to serve as the president of NAGAP and look forward to working closely with our members across the globe to foster an environment of knowledge sharing and professional growth,” said Wright. Wright’s election comes at a pivotal time as the association seeks to navigate the challenges of the ever-evolving educational landscape and harness opportunities to drive positive change in graduate enrollment practices worldwide. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Wright as the new president of NAGAP,” said Haley Brust, executive director of NAGAP. “Her extensive experience and dedicated leadership are vital as we continue to support our members and advocate for the importance of graduate enrollment management.” Wright holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership from Clark Atlanta University and a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Georgia Southern. She has previously served NAGAP as vice president, secretary and conference committee chair. NAGAP is dedicated to the professional advancement and support of individuals in graduate enrollment management. NAGAP offers its members professional development opportunities, cutting-edge research and a community network to foster best practices in graduate education. For additional information about NAGAP and its services, please visit www.nagap.org. If you're interested in learning more or a reporter looking to speak with Naronda Wright - simply Contact Georgia Southern's Director of Communications Jennifer Wise at jwise@georgiasouthern.edu to arrange an interview today.

2 min

Together We Soar Campaign surpasses $100 million milestone

The Georgia Southern University Foundation, Inc. and the Georgia Southern University Athletic Foundation, Inc. are pleased to announce a significant milestone in its ambitious fundraising campaign, “Together We Soar.” The generous support of the community has enabled the campaign to soar past the $100 million mark, a remarkable achievement in the University’s path toward its $125 million goal. Launched October 2023, the “Together We Soar” public phase of the campaign set out with a bold vision to elevate Georgia Southern’s mission and impact: “People. Purpose. Action. Growing ourselves to grow others.” Through this initiative, the University aimed to strengthen its commitment to prioritize student success and support its communities. The overwhelming response and unwavering support from our donors and alumni have propelled us toward this momentous achievement. “This milestone is a testament to the incredible generosity and belief in our mission,” said Georgia Southern University President Kyle Marrero. “We are deeply humbled and grateful for the outpouring of support that has brought us to this point. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of our students and shaping a brighter future for generations to come.” Throughout the campaign so far, 106 new endowments have been created covering all areas of academic study. The Goel Scholars was established and provides a full ride scholarship opportunity for the Honors College, and the first class has begun their studies. The School of Music was named the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music. Buildings such as the Jack and Ruth Ann Hill Convocation Center, the Anthony P. Tippins Family Training Center, renovations made to the J.I. Clements Baseball stadium, and the renamed Evans Family Field at Allen E. Paulson Stadium contributes significantly to the landscape of the Statesboro Campus. Significant gifts made by the Crider family will propel the Manufacturing Engineering program, while a commitment by Centene Corporation will put healthcare at the forefront for years to come. The success of the “Together We Soar” campaign underscores the power of collective action and the impact that philanthropy can have on communities. Every contribution, no matter the size, has played a vital role in reaching this milestone and advancing the shared vision. “As we celebrate this achievement, we also recognize that our work is far from over, said Trip Addison, vice president for University Advancement. “With $25 million left to reach our goal, we remain committed to forging ahead, united in our dedication to Georgia Southern’s mission and the individuals and communities we serve. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have contributed to the “Together We Soar” campaign. Your support is not only transforming lives but also inspiring hope and creating lasting change.” For more information on how to join the mission or contribute to the campaign, please visit GeorgiaSouthern.edu/TogetherWeSoar. For more information, contact Georgia Southern's Director of Communications Jennifer Wise at jwise@georgiasouthern.edu to arrange an interview today.

View all posts