I got involved with the project because I wanted to get back into the field and engage with marine life in a scientific context again. I studied marine biology at Bangor University and have been trying to figure out what I would like to do with my degree. I am quite passionate about citizen science and wanted to learn more about what there is on our shores. 

I often feel like the opportunity to actually see marine life can be somewhat inaccessible. Snorkelling or diving always require special equipment, and the conditions need to be right. The shore surveys are a lot more accessible, only really requiring a pair of wellies. Through these surveys I have met many people from a range of different backgrounds who come together and learn about marine life including worms, snails and sponges. Working in small groups to carefully examine everything within a survey quadrat is also a great way to get to know others.

I think I have seen something new or learned something new every single time I have done a survey

I have gained a lot from taking part in this project. Not only have I learned while being on the shore, but I have also had the opportunity to do more beyond Shoresearch. This included attending  a taxonomic drawing class and an Eco literacy course, which have allowed me to gain valuable skills beyond the surveys. These experiences have not only given me more skills but have also given me a broader perspective of opportunities in the environmental sector. 

I also enjoy being able to share what I have learned with people outside of the project, for example pointing out different shells and anemones while walking on the beach. Having this increased awareness of my surroundings has definitely had a positive impact on my well-being. 

Taking part in the shore surveys has also helped me rebuild confidence in the scientific skills I developed during university. Covid significantly impacted the amount of fieldwork I was able to do, so getting the opportunity to practise these skills every single month is incredibly valuable. I have also become so much more confident in my identification skills in general, especially because individual species identification was not always a major focus during my degree.

What surprised me most - and is also the most challenging - is the incredible diversity of seaweed and the often-subtle differences that you need to be aware of for correct identification. I sometimes worry about misidentifying something and a potentially important species going undocumented. However, having volunteers around who have been coming to Shoresearch for years and have done additional courses (and Dawn of course) have helped me out in those situations many times. 

I believe projects like this are important to get people out in nature and noticing things they may otherwise overlook. Oftentimes the rocky intertidal zone can just look like it is only seaweed and barnacles, but looking just a little closer reveals so many organisms most people will not interact with in their entire life. I heard someone who came along for the first time say that it is like a whole different world.

I think I have seen something new or learned something new every single time I have done a survey, and I would encourage anyone to come along at least once because I am sure they would come back.