Citizen Scientists study Sydney’s casuarina forest!

In collaboration with Dr Jeff Kelleway (University of Wollongong), the Blue Carbon Lab is studying the variability of Blue Carbon stocks and fluxes across Australia’s coastal vegetated systems (mangroves – saltmarshes – swamp oaks). Specifically, we are interested in examining whether coastal swamp oaks (casuarina trees) should be included into Blue Carbon budgets.

Data collection took place at Towra Point Nature reserve, where Citizen Scientists split into teams (girl team vs boy team) to survey above ground and below ground vegetation.

Participants used their phones and google maps to locate the 6 geographical points that needed to be sampled. At each point, they collected 2 superficial soil samples using syringes; one sample would be used to quantify carbon stock, and the other one to measure particle size. Additionally, participants established 100m2 plots and collected biomass measures of the casuarina trees and saltmarsh vegetation. Measures will be used in equations  to quantify above ground Carbon stocks.

Both teams (girls & boys) finished their plots in record time, so we were able to sample an additional plot in the mangrove forest!

Many thanks to all the HSBC staff that joined us on the day and Dr Jeff Kelleway who supported all the field operation!