 |
| Looking south from the North Head Lighthouse at Cape Disappointment State Park provides an excellent view of one of the beaches Tom is quite familiar with |
One of the reasons I think we have seen a “boom” in citizen
science programs over the past decade is that folks are starting to realize
more than ever the incredibly valuable and, in many cases, irreplaceable, nature
of natural science data collected by individuals who know a particular area
like the back of their hand. As I spoke with several COASSTers today, the
significance of such local expertise came in full focus. Rose (Cranberry Rd)
and Olli (Oregon Mile 286) have a history with their survey beaches that
predates COASST involvement. On the other hand, Rainer (Happy Camp) and Tom
(North Head Lighthouse N&S) had never visited their beaches before starting
with the program.
By now, all four are seasoned experts when it comes to their specific stretch of beach (or beaches). As we discussed their COASST beaches today, each person was able to share detailed information about the geomorphology of their survey location; prevailing currents, wind patterns, tidal processes, and deposition of birds, trash, and sand. Although all of these beaches are under constant flux, these guys recognize what is “normal” (if there is such a thing) and what is not. Even though Rose, Olli, Rainer, and Tom were quite modest in discussing their level of expertise, all four have mentally mapped out every nook and cranny of their beach and possess impressive knowledge of the local environment, including who, what and how other creatures interact with the place. Even though COASST is focused primarily on birds, according to these volunteers, the program has helped facilitate a deeper knowledge and awareness of their survey beach. It is that kind of insight about a place and its natural history that has enormous potential for ecological research. Such understanding, combined with the detailed knowledge of a species, environment, or ecological process held by vocational researchers makes for powerful science; a partnership of discovery, learning, and conservation with benefits for all involved.
 |
| After decades visiting this beach (COASST OR Mile 286), Olli knows a great deal about the coastal environment along Cape Meares, OR |
By now, all four are seasoned experts when it comes to their specific stretch of beach (or beaches). As we discussed their COASST beaches today, each person was able to share detailed information about the geomorphology of their survey location; prevailing currents, wind patterns, tidal processes, and deposition of birds, trash, and sand. Although all of these beaches are under constant flux, these guys recognize what is “normal” (if there is such a thing) and what is not. Even though Rose, Olli, Rainer, and Tom were quite modest in discussing their level of expertise, all four have mentally mapped out every nook and cranny of their beach and possess impressive knowledge of the local environment, including who, what and how other creatures interact with the place. Even though COASST is focused primarily on birds, according to these volunteers, the program has helped facilitate a deeper knowledge and awareness of their survey beach. It is that kind of insight about a place and its natural history that has enormous potential for ecological research. Such understanding, combined with the detailed knowledge of a species, environment, or ecological process held by vocational researchers makes for powerful science; a partnership of discovery, learning, and conservation with benefits for all involved.
No comments:
Post a Comment