Seagrass-Watch Global Seagrass Observing Network (established in 1998) accurately monitors the status and trends in seagrass condition. The network has conducted over 5700 assessments at 418 sites across 26 countries, involving thousands of dedicated participants.
Seagrass-Watch is one of the largest long-term seagrass observing programs globally and is highly recognised for its scientific rigour. Seagrass-Watch participants are from a wide variety of backgrounds. All share a common interest in marine conservation. Most participants are associated with universities & research institutions, government (local & state) or non-government organisations. Seagrass-Watch partners scientists with citizens, as people involved in the program develop a deep sense of custodianship and understanding of their local marine environments that reaches throughout the wider community. Coastal communities are concerned about the condition and loss of seagrasses in their regions and are keen to play a primary information-gathering role and work in partnership with management agencies.
