Volunteers for annual coastal survey needed

COASTWATCH is looking for volunteers to take part in the annual survey of the Wexford coastline. They can nominate their chosen sites to be studied between September 15 and October 15. All information is available on www.coastwatch.org

Karin Dubsky of Coastwatch said that of special interest this year is the Fethard Head to Duncannon area as this is part of the Waterford estuary which has been identified as a site of high biodiversity, and a special feature area which will be subject to a more detailed result exhibition at a later date.

‘ The Coastwatch survey is a methodical audit of the shore around low tide carried out by citizens,’ said Karin. ‘It offers exercise in fresh sea air, a chal- lenge, and it’s exciting when you find something special. The data collected produces a picture of our coast and its health.’

She said that past results of this citizen science project, co-ordinated internationally by Coastwatch in Trinity College Dublin, have contributed to official knowledge of the coast and have been included in the NWW Marine Atlas and other reports and maps.

‘Most importantly, it provides the base for follow up action on specific site issues highlighted, and on wider policy,’ she commented. ‘Coastwatch has proposed and pushed changes like the successful plastic bag tax in the past. The more coast is covered the stronger the data. This year our eyes are set on 1,000 sites.’

Volunteers from all walks of life are invited to participate in this citizen science project. They simply choose one or more ‘survey units’ - 500m of shore - and then carry out a once-off eco-audit of that area around low tide, checking it from land to the water’s edge.

Set survey questions are answered while on the shore, with posters and guide notes to help. Materials can be downloaded or hard copies provided by Coastwatch coordinators. Water quality test kits are also available and the Coastwatch team will help with training and any queries.

Booking is now open. Just google ‘Coastwatch survey’– or use the link http://coastwatch. org/europe/ Volunteers can select areas on an interactive map and request test kits to be posted out.