The California MPA Watch program is implemented by twelve different organizations throughout the state. The Marin MPA Watch Volunteer Program is managed by the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin (EAC), and in collaboration with the California Academy of Sciences, and Point Reyes National Seashore.
The Marin MPA Watch focuses their efforts at Agate Beach/Duxbury Reef, Corte Madera Marsh, Drakes Beach, Limantour Beach, Point Resistance, and the Point Reyes Headlands.
The Marin MPA Watch program is a community science program that:
Trains volunteers to collect scientific data on consumptive and non-consumptive coastal and marine resource use by ocean users using specific protocols and a survey.
Surveys are observational only, and collect human activities in and outside of MPAs, such as surfing, kayaking, fishing, boating, running, etc., with the intention of improving our understanding of how people are using our statewide MPAs.
Informs MPA management and supports the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Not only do local volunteers learn about their coastal environment and become community scientists and stewards of the area, but they generate large quantities of monitoring data that would not be possible without community volunteers.
VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS
Must be 18 year of age or older, or accompanied by a guardian, and sign our liability and photo release form.
Volunteers conduct 1-2 surveys a month with a minimum commitment of three months and in coordination with tides, and other volunteers.
Attend Marin MPA Watch volunteer training for each location you are interested in volunteering at.
Physically able to walk 2-5 miles on the beach and/or trails.
(Optional) Use iNaturalist App to record what you see on the beach, take pictures and share them for our media team, collect beach trash and make art to create awareness!
PERSONAL BENEFITS
Healthy recreation that gets you outside exercising your mind and muscles!
Collection of long-term community science data for our MPAs.
Invitations to EAC special events and the annual Park Service Volunteer Picnic (typically third Friday in July) at the Bear Valley Picnic Area, Point Reyes National Seashore.
You will receive a confirmation email after your registration.
