Community outreach
Description
We believe that successful and effective conservation is only possible through the support and involvement of local communities. Our research endeavours are thus geared towards promoting environmental education of local communities, and our aim is to instil a passion for our estuaries and oceans. We do this through community talks, educational outings and workshops.
Period
Ongoing
Contact
Spha Ndamane at sphandamane@gmail.com
ShoreSearch
Description
The Shoresearch project is a long-term study of the biodiversity of the intertidal zone of the Knysna estuary. The project measures the invertebrate species that live between the low and high tide lines and their frequencies. There are 10 assessment sites from the Heads to Featherbed Bay with a diverse range of habitats which are assessed annually on a seasonal basis.
The project demonstrates
- The number of species and their frequency
- The effect of zonation from low to high tide
- Habitat differences
- Differences caused by reduced salinity at sites higher up the estuary
- Changes over time
The Project is run by Frances and Peter Smith with the help of citizen scientists.
Knysna Basin Project has published a revised and expanded second edition of its field guide – A Field Guide to the Shores of the Knysna Estuary – the common creatures, seaweeds and saltmarsh plants. The Guide aims to help the community learn about and appreciate the Estuary and to raise funds for the Project.
Period
Ongoing
Contact
Peter and Frances Smith at petervillagestore@gmail.com
