Community-led monitoring of aquatic species for biodiversity conservation

Indigenous peoples and local communities are stewards of Earth’s biodiversity, with their sustainable practices crucial for global conservation efforts. Effective biodiversity monitoring, including tracking at-risk species populations, is essential for understanding species trends, identifying threats, and guiding conservation strategies. Our Mitacs Globalink project focuses on researching how local communities can monitor the recovery of threatened aquatic species in their territories. We will conduct a literature review incorporating diverse knowledge systems (scientific, Indigenous, and local) to develop a practical guide for community-led monitoring. Partnering with the University of Oxford’s Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Science, involved in the international Indigenous people and local community-led Transformative Pathways project, our research aims to support community-led monitoring practices. This project benefits the University of Oxford (host institution) by enhancing their understanding of community-led aquatic monitoring and providing a valuable resource for ongoing discussions with Transformative Pathways community partners. Carleton University (home institution) benefits from expanded research networks and opportunities for collaborating with Canadian government departments, vital for achieving national and global conservation targets.

Faculty Supervisor:

Vivian Nguyen

Student:

Partner:

University of Oxford

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Sustainability & the Environment

University:

Carleton University

Program: