Moray Ocean Community
Snorkel & Marine Survey Weekend
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In June 2024, our Scottish Learning Fund (SLF) supported nine members of the Moray Ocean Community (MOC) in a weekend of marine education and citizen science.
Their trip to the Field Studies Council (FSC) Millport, located on the beautiful Isle of Cumbrae, focused on snorkelling and marine surveying, expanding the group’s understanding of Scotland’s coastal ecosystems and equipping them with the knowledge to engage more effectively in its guardianship.
Learning and Collaboration
Classroom sessions, introducing both novice and experienced snorkellers to essential skills such as snorkel safety, mask clearing, and underwater navigation. Participants also learned about Scotland’s rich marine species, with a focus on seaweed, seagrass, and native oysters, laying the foundation for the hands-on learning to follow.
The group then undertook four snorkelling sessions, each with a specific focus. They practiced snorkelling skills, learned advanced techniques and honed their ability to identify marine species. One of the key objectives was to conduct marine surveys using transects and quadrats, which allowed participants to gather important data on species density and biodiversity. This resulted in crucial baseline data on the health of Moray Firth marine ecosystems. They also had discussions on vital marine conservation topics, including the restoration of seagrass meadows, which are crucial for carbon sequestration, water quality, and providing habitat for various marine species, and the protection of native oyster populations, vital for enhancing biodiversity and water filtration.
Lasting Impact and Future Plans
The weekend also had a lasting impact on MOC members beyond the educational sessions. Participants discussed their future initiatives, including the development of a mobile app to capture Moray Firth marine data, which will allow for even more community involvement in conservation efforts. Looking ahead, the group plans to use their new skills in future snorkel surveys and share their findings with the wider community to engage more people in marine conservation. Their passion and enthusiasm for marine science will continue to inspire and contribute to the protection of Scotland’s marine ecosystems.
