On a cloudy morning in November at Fox Point Beach near Hubbards, Nova Scotia, a group of five individuals wade into the ocean while waves gently touch their knees. Their purpose is to gather water samples for analysis at Dalhousie University’s laboratory to track marine species. The Community-Oriented Coastal Observatory is seeking volunteers like them to assist in collecting samples from various locations in the province.
Krish Thapar, who traveled from Dartmouth to participate, eagerly absorbed instructions from PhD candidate Samantha Beal on using the sampling equipment and preventing contamination. Thapar expressed his interest in local conservation efforts and saw this volunteer opportunity as a valuable experience.
Samantha Beal spearheads the project that unites community members to collect coastal water samples for eDNA analysis, identifying genetic traces of marine species. The project aims to enhance understanding of Nova Scotia’s marine species distribution and movements. As ocean temperatures increase, certain species, such as lobsters, are impacted, leading to potential shifts in their habitats.
Beal distributes sampling kits to volunteer groups across different communities in Nova Scotia, equipping them with necessary tools to collect DNA from ocean water. The project involves training these groups in preparation for sample collection three times annually to track seasonal migration patterns and detect any species-related trends.
Thapar shared that his involvement in the project aligns with his conservation interests and provides an opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities with like-minded individuals. Beal continues to seek volunteers, particularly in areas like the Bay of Fundy, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in the research initiative.