The Pacific Oyster Surveys are carried out monthly on low tides, working in the inter-tidal to gather data about the rate of unplanned growth of feral non-native species. We work in teams up and down the Fal Estuary to stop the breeding, and monitor growth, patterns, and the impact on biodiversity, recreational enjoyment of the shoreline and the effects of marine infrastructure.
The next surveys will be on:
Sunday November 17th meet at 11.45 for a low tide 12.27
Monday November 18th meet at 12.15 for a low tide 13.09
We will be working from Loe Beach which is adhesive.thumbnail.glove in What Three Words or Green Close Feock, Truro TR3 6SH
To volunteer or find out more, sign up to the invite list oystersurveys@falmouthmarineconservation.co.uk
What's involved?
We meet when the tides are right to get a briefing and then working in pairs, we set out transects to allow us to scientifically count the numbers of Pacific oysters.
We work in teams up and down the Fal Estuary. Chris offers lifts to up to three people from the Falmouth area to the designated survey site each month.
Why get involved?
The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) is an invasive non-native species that was first introduced to Britain in 1926 (GBINNS) and farmed commercially from the 1960s. At the time it was thought that the cool temperatures of UK waters would prevent any spread of this species. However, since its introduction, rising sea temperatures have allowed this species to spread extensively around the coast. In some areas it has become problematic, establishing reefs and excluding other inter tidal species.
Recently there has been increasing concern around the spread of wild Pacific oysters in Marine Protected Areas. According to Natural England, the abundance of Pacific oyster Magallana gigas (formerly Crassostrea gigas) within intertidal Marine Protected Areas has led to some sites being reported as being in unfavourable condition in Devon and Cornwall.
How to get involved?
Please sign up to the invite list oystersurveys@falmouthmarineconservation.co.uk so that you will be notified of future dates for the surveys which take place monthly
Chris Sharpe – Pacific Oyster Survey Lead Falmouth Marine Conservation will post a detailed briefing including potential weather, on Tuesday 12th November
I look forward to seeing you on the shoreline!
Ideal Skill
- Conservation
Ideal Interests
- Conservation
- Outdoor work