Fine weather and lots of fun on the Sapphire Coast

Over two weekends during National Science Week, the Far South Coast was abuzz with community science activity generated by the Atlas of Life in the Coastal Wilderness, a long-term project in which members of the community work with scientists to explore, learn and record the natural world.

Two hundred and twenty-two people enjoyed great weather and participated in biodiversity mapping activities at two sites: Bournda National Park and Greencape in Ben Boyd National Park.

Among the highlights were were rock platform surveys and Yellow Bellied Glider night time searches, heathland flora walks and whale watching at Greencape Lighthouse.

Scientists and expert naturalists gave their time freely to help people learn techniques to help them discover many of the wonderful aspects of our environment.

The Atlas of Life showcased its achievements as well. In the two years since we, have attracted 129 people who have contributed 3,169 sightings of 1,307 species.

The Atlas of Life used the occasion of science week to launch its My Place project that encourages everyone to document sightings in their own location. Whether it is in a garden or on a favourite walk, My Place encourages people to build a journal of what they see.

The aim of this project is to add to the immensely valuable historical information that records the natural life of our region.

National Science Week 2013 has been a great success on the Sapphire Coast. We thank the Australian Government’s Inspiring Australia program and NSW Trade & Investment for their support in funding these activities and acknowledge the many and varied contributions of all those who contributed.

Partners:

  • The Atlas of Life in the Coastal Wilderness (coordinator)
  • Bournda Environmental Education Centre
  • Auswide
  • Sapphire Coast Marine Society
  • Panboola Wetlands Trust
  • NPWS
  • Bega Valley Shire Council
  • IMB

Visit our website for information about The Atlas of Life in the Coastal Wilderness.