Wicklow Coastwatch Needs You!

Latest press release from Wicklow County Council, issued on Thursday, October 15th 2020…

The Heritage Office of Wicklow County Council has issued an urgent reminder that we are now entering the final weekend of the annual Coastwatch survey – the deadline is Monday next 19th October.

But more volunteers are urgently needed to make the survey a success.

This survey is an eco audit of Ireland’s coast carried out by volunteers who sign up to walk one or more survey units (500m) at low tide and fill in a questionnaire of their observations.

It is our longest running citizen science project in Ireland and essentially provides a snapshot of our coastal environment every year that can be used to measure changes in biodiversity, erosion, pollution incidents and litter.

“We have over 60km of coastline in county Wicklow and in these days of restricted travel it provides such a valuable resource for healthy outdoor recreation. For all of us who regularly enjoy our local coast, participating in the survey is an ideal opportunity to give something back”, states Deirdre Burns, Wicklow County Council Heritage Officer and regional Coastwatch co-ordinator.

There are a number of survey units waiting to be booked in County Wicklow, including popular areas such as The Murrough, Maghermore beach and Brittas Bay north and south beaches.

Low tides over the weekend will be in the early afternoon making lunchtime the optimal survey time.

To book your survey unit visit Coastwatch here. Contact [email protected] for further information.