Between March and September each year, we run a programme of intertidal surveys. These involve surveying a stretch of shoreline to identify and record marine species, usually using the Shoresearch methodology.

The data collected on these surveys is an invaluable help to our conservation activities and supports our efforts to secure legal protections like Marine Conservation Zones.

If you your new to this and would like to help us on our intertidal survey's this year then this training course is for you. We only ask that you commit to as many intertidal surveys as you are able, so your training is put to good use and your new found skills not forgotten.

Our intertidal survey training is designed to give you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to get the most out of your time on shore with us. It involves:

• Basic shore ecology and threats to biodiversity.
• An overview of the different methods used on intertidal surveys.
• An identification session covering different groups of seaweeds, sponges, and animals.
• An intertidal survey on the shore to put what you've learned into practice.

You don’t need any special knowledge or experience to take part in this training, but you must be either over 18 or over 16 and accompanied by a participating parent or guardian.

Our intertidal surveys form part of Secrets of the Solent, an exciting four-year marine project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund. The project is celebrating the amazing wildlife and people that share the Solent's coast and waters, through art, cuisine, citizen science, and more.

VENUE

Our venue is the classroom at Lepe Country Park. This is located at Lepe Point, in the conservation area opposite the entrance to the cliff top car park.

WHAT TO BRING

- A drink and a packed lunch.

- Change for car parking.

- Warm, weatherproof clothing and a hat as many survey areas are exposed and can be windy.

- Sturdy (ideally waterproof) footwear with good ankle support.

- Sun protection and water if it's a sunny day.

- Washing up gloves if it's a cold day, for keeping your hands warm when rummaging in rockpools.

- A hand lens and guide to sea shore species if you have them.

- A camera or smartphone (switch on location services) for recording your finds.