CONTEXT
MedPAN is the network of Marine Protected Area (MPA) managers in the Mediterranean Sea. In partnership with several MPAs, including the Port-Cros and Calanques National Parks, MedPAN is running a regular training program (Regular training program) for the staff working in natural protected areas.
We have co-constructed with these partners two training modules (1 English and 1 French) on scientific protocols for monitoring coastal ecosystems that can be carried out using snorkelling equipment for MPA managers in the Mediterranean Sea. Various protocols are presented, based on the compilation made by the agents of the Calanques National Park (Imbert & Bonhomme, 2014). These modules took place respectively on the islands of Port-Cros and Porquerolles.
The participants are getting ready to map the superior limit of the Posidonia meadows during the initiative workshop “Cartographie de la limite supérieure de l’herbier de Posidonie”.
OBJECTIVES : HABITATS, SPECIES AND PRESSURE MAPPING OF COASTAL SHALLOW HETEROGENEOUS BOTTOMS
Learning objectives:
- Acquire knowledge of the main coastal biocenoses and their ecological function.
- Perform a preliminary mapping and diagnosis of the study site.
- Define the sampling methodology, strategy and effort for the fieldwork
- Prepare the fieldwork
- Perform in situ data collection
- Compile and synthesise data
- Perform a cross-sectional examination of the underwater seascape mosaic: identification of priority habitats by cross-analysis of ecological function/pressure/threats.
Training approach
This highly operational training includes classroom sessions (theory, data analysis) and field exercises based on snorkelling methodologies. It is based on the approach described in the methodological guide Monitoring the marine environment using Snorkel Mask (Imbert & Bonhomme, 2014), which has also been adapted into a series of video tutorials.
Trainees’ profile
This training is designed for MPA officers in charge of terrestrial and/or marine monitoring (field officer, technician or scientific officer).
Sessions
- October 2019 at Port-Cros National Park, France (English session)
- February 2020 at Port-Cros National Park, France (French session)
