Open University (distance learning). Climate: UK Meteorological Office. Associates: Environment Agency, Department of En
Public awareness and community involvement The OPAL Tree Survey
Dr Linda Davies Imperial College London
[email protected]
OPAL: A community driven research and education programme
OPAL Objectives 1.Get more people outside exploring and recording the world around them. 2.Develop an innovative environmental education programme. 3.Stimulate a new generation of environmentalists. 4.Strengthen collaboration between the statutory, voluntary and community sectors. 5.Gain a greater understanding of the state of the natural environment.
Newcastle University
Research & Education Centres Soil: Imperial University of Central Lancashire Air: Imperial Water: University College London Biodiversity: Natural History Museum/ Open University (distance learning) Climate: UK Meteorological Office
University of York
University of Nottingham
Support Services University of Birmingham Natural History Museum Field Studies Council Royal Parks National Biodiversity Imperial College London (Silwood Park) Network
University of Hertfordshire
Imperial College London
University of Plymouth
Associates: Environment Agency, Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)
Autumn Watch 2011
Tree survey methodology 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Select a suitable site Record location (Google maps) and site conditions* Ground cover around the base (fallen leaves) Tree identification – (new guide under development)* Oak, Ash, Horse chestnut - extra special trees* Measure girth, estimate height (tape measure, height chart) 7. Canopy assessment –shape, damage, transparency (guide) 8. Leaf examination – colour, damage, insects* 9. Epiphytes: flora, fauna and fungi*
Data
• Help with tree identification iSpot • Upload data to the website • Instant feedback on: estimated age of the tree tree health score pest and diseases management • Data instantly mapped • Data to Forest Research • Analysis and interpretation – what does it tell us?
Impact • 90% have learnt new skills • 85% are likely to do another survey • 45% said they think differently about the environment • Fun is the most often used word • Taking part in research was a key motivating factor • Teachers more confident about taking classes outdoors • Evidence of improvements to health • Evidence of improved community cohesion
Get involved
1. Run training sessions • •
2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
field site indoor area with facilities
Attend training sessions Buddy scheme Order field packs Organise an event Support a community scientist
Acknowledgements
Thanks to the BBC for use of the Autumn watch 2011 video clip OPAL Website www.OPALexplorenature.org.uk
Register interest with Laura Gosling OPAL Co-ordinator
[email protected] 