Evaluating the reliability of citizen science SCUBA surveys for long term monitoring of Pacific Rockfish (Sebastes spp.)

The Galiano Conservation Association aims to educate the public about Rockfish Conservation areas, and monitor fisher compliance and rockfish populations, to enhance rockfish recovery around Galiano Island. Rockfish are a threatened and overfished group of fishes native to BC’s coast. Given that the underwater realm is toxic to humans, subtidal monitoring data is limited. However recreational divers are abundant and looking for ways to add value to their hobby. This project aims to harness the potential of crowdsourcing subtidal monitoring data through a citizen science program involving recreational divers. The reliability of recreational diver data has not been assessed in this context and we will investigate the roles of diver expertise on data accuracy. The legacy of this project will be the citizen science platform, ongoing engagement of the dive community and the validation of citizen science scuba survey data.

Faculty Supervisor:

John Volpe

Student:

Partner:

Galiano Conservancy Association

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Arts, entertainment and recreation

University:

University of Victoria

Program: