Community Monitoring Program for Wetland Health
Author:
Eaton, Brian
Wetlands are critical habitat for numerous aquatic and semi-aquatic species and provide important services such as flood control, water purification and recreational opportunities such as wildlife-watching and hunting.Clearly, conservation of these habitats is important for biodiversity, ecosystem health and for the natural goods and services they supply. Despite their importance, the number of wetlands in many parts of western Canada has declined dramatically, and the health of those that remain is largely unknown. Citizen scientists represent a largely untapped pool of interested and dedicated people who may be used to enhance wetland health sampling programs. There are multiple reasons for using volunteers to assist with monitoring wetland health, including engagement of citizens in planning for sustainable ecosystems at a local level, and increasing education and changing attitudes about wetlands and their role in ecosystems.This presentation will outline a potential wetland monitoring program based on citizen scientists using information drawn from both the scientific and volunteer monitoring literature.
Publication Date:
2009
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