Shoresearch

Coastal Wardens and Shoresearch

Shoresearch

Shoresearch is a volunteer scheme run by Essex Wildlife Trust’s Living Seas team to identify and record animals, plants and habitats along our shoreline.  The project aims to build a baseline of data on the marine wildlife that occurs in Essex.

Who can take part?

We welcome volunteers of all ability and experience to join Shoresearch!  If you are keen to learn and happy to give up a few hours of your time, you are welcome. Prior knowledge of marine life is not necessary, but the events are still great for more experienced surveyors.  The shore can sometimes be slippery and hard to access, so you do need to be fit and mobile to take part.  Shoresearch events are not usually suitable for young children, and we ask you to please not bring dogs. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.  We usually survey for 2-3 hours.

What do I need to bring to a survey?

  • Appropriate clothing for weather conditions on the day (warm clothing and waterproof trousers are often useful; sun protection).
  • Sturdy footwear - wellies or other waterproof footwear, preferably with good ankle support.
  • Drinking water.
  • A hand lens is useful, if you have one (we have some kit available)
  • Collins Pocket Guide to the Sea Shore of Britain and Northern Europe is a useful field guide (although not essential).

Survey dates:

Survey dates and further information can be found on Essex Wildlife Trust’s ‘What’s on’ page – search by Keyword: ‘shoresearch’.

How to get involved?

Please email Shoresearch@essexwt.org.uk to be added to our Shoresearch mailing list and to register for each survey (there are limited spaces for some).  This helps us get an idea of numbers and means we can get in touch with further details.

Please note that by registering your contact information, you are agreeing to Essex Wildlife Trust contacting you in relation to the activities you have expressed an interest in.  You can get in touch with us at any time to be taken off our lists.

 

Shoresearch. Photo: Essex Wildlife Trust