BeachCOMBERS

hundreds of shorebirds gathered along the shorebreak — Diversity shorebirds inhabit the sanctuary's coastlines. Photo: Peggy Langford/*Get Into Your Sanctuary* Photo Contest

BeachCOMBERS (Coastal Ocean Mammal/Bird Education and Research Surveys), a beach monitoring study utilizing volunteers to sample selected sections of beach for dead marine birds and mammals, was established within Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary in February 1997. The primary goal of the program is to obtain information on rates of stranding for all species of marine birds and mammals in Monterey Bay.

The long-term objectives of the program are to provide a baseline of information on the average presence of beachcast marine life and to assist the sanctuary in the early detection of mortality events triggered by natural and anthropogenic environmental perturbations such as harmful algal blooms and oil spills. Pairs of trained volunteers survey their beach segment during the first week of each month at low tide.

How to Apply

If interested in volunteering, contact the BeachCOMBERS program for opportunities.

Citizen science volunteer examines dead pelican on beach. — BeachCOMBERS citizen science volunteer examining a dead beachcast brown pelican during a monthly survey. Photo: Tierny Thys