Objectives: Are objectives are to 1) quantify patterns of genetic diversity in natural, restored and cultured populations of Vallisneria americana 2) quantify relationships between genetic diversity, ecological characteristics, and restoration success; and 3) culture different genotypes and population sources in support of conducting greenhouse experiments. This crosscutting interdisciplinary research specifically responds to several research areas outlined in the Maryland Sea Grant solicitation for research in the Chesapeake Bay. Methodology: We will use a combination of standard genetic techniques to characterize genetic diversity of 6 natural, 6 restored, and 6 cultured populations of Vallisneria americana present in the Chesapeake Bay.