WaterWatch and EstuaryWatch coordinators across the state recently gathered at CERES in Brunswick for two days of coordinator training and discussions with the Statewide team.
The first day kicked off with a refresher on data analysis and scientific reporting on the health of waterways, which was facilitated by water expert Peter Newall. This sparked a lot of discussion on the different threats, values and unique measurements of inland flowing waterways throughout Victoria. One coordinator was so happy with the data training that he went as far to say, “I met the 75th percentile and I liked it!”.
After the data workshop, regional coordinators discussed how they could implement QAQC across the state with their volunteers, QAQC ensures data gathered through the program is scientifically valid, while also making sure equipment is working properly and calibrated.
Later that day there were two presentations from coordinators to enjoy and discuss. Dr Deirde Murphy and Kristen Lees from Corangamite CMA and Julia Cirillo from Merri Creek Management Committee (MCMC) gave a presentation on their partnerships. Deirdre and Kristen spoke about embedding citizen science into their funding bids, while Julia discussed the incredible partnerships within the Edwardes Lake and Edgars Creek Task Force.
Day two featured a planning workshop with Patrick O’Sullivan from New Impact, which cemented the importance and direction of EstuaryWatch and WaterWatch.
