Crowdsourcing conservation: The role of citizen science in securing a future for seagrass

Abstract

Seagrass meadows are complex social-ecological systems. Understanding seagrass meadows demands a fresh approach integrating "the human dimension". Citizen science is widely acknowledged for providing significant contributions to science, education, society and policy. Although the take up of citizen science in the marine environment has been slow, the need for such methods to fill vast information gaps is arguably great. Seagrass meadows are easy to access and provide an example of where citizen science is expanding. Technological developments have been pivotal to this, providing new opportunities for citizens to engage with seagrass. The increasing use of online tools has created opportunities to collect and submit as well as help process and analyse data. Citizen science has helped researchers integrate scientific and local knowledge and engage communities to implement conservation measures. Here we use a selection of examples to demonstrate how citizen science can secure a future for seagrass.

Toward a Coordinated Global Observing System for Seagrasses and Marine Macroalgae

“…A combination of science and LEK can provide data across larger temporal and spatial scales. LEK and associated citizen science have been increasingly applied to help map and monitor marine habitats, including seagrasses, at global scales in cost-effective ways (Titilola, 1990;Moller et al, 2004;Jones et al, 2017) and to help design marine protected areas (Ban et al, 2009). Such approaches also provide opportunities for engagement, empowerment, and an improved sense of wellbeing.…”

“…Nearly all monitoring programs are conducted by marine scientists or environmental practitioners. However, over the last couple of decades, citizen science has also begun to contribute significantly to science, education, and policy (Jones et al, 2017). Citizen monitoring is most successful when it requires minimal specialized equipment and resources.…”

Spatiotemporal variability in the structure of seagrass meadows and associated macrofaunal assemblages in southwest England (UK): Using citizen science to benchmark ecological pattern

“…The number of citizen science activities has increased rapidly in recent years, in line with technological advances (e.g., social media and data sharing platforms, tailored apps, etc.) and wider awareness of environmental issues and such projects are increasingly important for conservation (Jones, Unsworth, McKenzie, Yoshida, & Cullen-Unsworth, 2018). Concurrently, the resources allocated to national and regional governments are in many cases insufficient to achieve effective monitoring (Rush & Solandt, 2017), and fundamental ecological information is lacking for many marine populations, habitats, and locations (Jackson et al, 2016;Smale et al, 2013).…”

Towards recognition of seagrasses, and their sustainable management

“…The success of monitoring programs like Seagrass Watch/SeagrassNet, and the SeagrassSpotter phone application (Jones et al, 2017) are signs of increasing public awareness and interest in the health of seagrass ecosystems.…”