The Great Reef Census
Using citizen-science for reef conservation
The Great Barrier Reef is the most iconic marine place on the planet. The impact of this World-Heritage listed ecosystem stretches globally. However, with climate change and more frequent coral bleaching events, it is under increasing stress.
The Great Reef Census, developed in collaboration with top reef scientists and managers, has rapidly extended its survey reach across the Great Barrier Reef within just three years. This initiative has enabled extensive data collection, providing crucial insights into the reef's health. The information gathered allows reef managers and scientists to implement targeted protection strategies.
How the Census supports the reef
The data from the first free Census expeditions has helped conservation efforts throughout the Great Barrier Reef. The project has identified key source reefs crucial to helping build resilience and direct Crown-of-Thorns starfish control vessels, a species responsible for half of coral loss.
Utilising the network provided by the Great Reef Census, other conservation missions also benefit. More than three tonnes of ghost nets were removed during Census expeditions, and soft infrastructure for seagrass mapping and sea cucumber conservation activities was provided.
“The Great Reef Census is a massive people-powered way of getting broad-scale reconnaissance of the Great Barrier Reef. With the reef being the size of Germany or Japan, understanding what's happening on such a large scale has become increasingly important as we face more threats from climate change and other factors.”
Andy Ridley, Founder, Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef
Community engagement and support
Each year, the Great Reef Census collects tens of thousands of images from the reef, with this number steadily increasing as the project grows. To ensure accuracy, each image must be analysed at least five times. With this in mind, making it easy and fun for volunteers is a key factor in the project's success. From schools to global corporations, the Census has been able to gain the support of many, who together have contributed over 100,000 analysed images.
“The Great Reef Census virtual volunteering program gives opportunities to people who traditionally haven’t been able to participate in reef conservation. This program allows us to go to them and give them something they can do from their laptops or offices that can help protect the Great Barrier Reef and actually make a difference.”
Nicole Senn, Engagement Manager, Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef
Ready to scale
*Disclaimer: This case study showcases an innovative approach in Cairns’ Smart Green Economy. While this project is not owned by Cairns Regional Council, and the presentation of this case study does not imply Council endorsement, it is our aim to highlight some of the exciting initiatives in our region and inspire positive change within our community.