Mighty Mangroves: Survey and Preservation Initiative

ABOUT THE ACTIVITY

Coastal Blue Carbon ecosystems – such as mangroves – can help reduce the risks and impacts of climate change while providing multiple co-benefits: they offer critical habitats for biodiversity, enhance local fisheries production, and protect coastal communities from erosion and storms. Yet mangroves face many threats, including deforestation, coastal development, pollution, and climate change.

HOW VOLUNTEERS WILL HELP

As part of Abu Dhabi's Mangrove week, Volunteers will assist our team of scientists in monitoring the wildlife supported by the restoration. Volunteers will help record mangrove plants in the area, assess their health, count crabs and burrows, the number of snails in a sample area, and lastly, make notes of other environmental parameters.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?  

This type of fieldwork is physically challenging; it will be outdoors, often without shade. So punctuality, reliability, and willingness to get dirty are vital. 

REMINDERS BEFORE EVENT:

• To be active, healthy, and physically fit – be able to walk/wade through several meters of mud  
• wear comfortable clothes, a hat, and sunscreen
• wear water shoes, or any old pair of shoes, as we will be working in a very muddy area
• Bring a change of clothes for after the event
• Have snacks and plenty of water

Please note that this trip is not suitable for children. 

What is the Impact? 

This baseline survey will show us the state of the existing site and the wildlife it supports.

• It will help us determine how our mangrove restoration activities benefit the area and impact the abundance and diversity of species at the site.
• Provide valuable information to support advocacy work that protect mangroves and other conservation strategies
• Contribute to the value of the ecosystem amongst the community.
• Support local ecotourism ventures.
• Gain knowledge and spread awareness of the power of individual action/ behavior