The Grass Is Greener Under The Sea

Did you know seagrass has been around since the time of dinosaurs? Four groups of flowering plants (angiosperms) colonised the oceans, these became known as seagrass, and they are the only flowering plants that can live underwater.
Seagrass, found in near-shore waters globally, is vital to marine life. Known as the "lungs of the sea," it produces 10 litres of oxygen per square metre daily. It feeds dugongs and green turtles, provides habitat for fish and prawns, and helps keep water clean by absorbing nutrients and stabilising sediments.
The Whitsundays has a fantastic opportunity for individuals in the area to participate in a Citizen Science Project in order to conduct and learn about scientific monitoring of these fantastic flowering plants.
The program requires you to undertake three days of training and then allows you to participate in research in three locations around the Whitsundays twice a year.
The Seagrass-Watch program has a simple philosophy of involving those who are concerned, and involves collaboration/partnerships between scientists, community and the data users.
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of seagrass biology and taxonomy, delve into seagrass ecology, and become proficient in monitoring and mapping techniques. They will also receive hands-on training in Seagrass-Watch protocols, while developing practical skills for conducting field monitoring events and seagrass mapping exercises.
Do you have a passion for helping our oceans and marine life? Check out the Whitsunday Seagrass-Watch program: seagrasswatch.org/whitsunday_training_2025
What: Sea Grass Watch Program
When: Registration opens: 9am 13 February 2025 and Registration closes: 5pm 24 March 2025.
Training Sessions: 07- 09 April 2025.

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