The Next Wave of Ocean Heroes: Training the Public to Become Citizen Scientists

How Everyday People Are Leading the Charge in Marine Conservation

San Diego, CA –March 19, 2025 – With global oceans facing unprecedented threats, from climate change to overfishing and pollution, the need for data-driven conservation has never been more urgent. Traditionally, marine research has been the domain of highly trained scientists, but a new movement is changing that paradigm—bringing everyday people into the heart of marine science.

Citizen science—the practice of public participation in scientific research—is transforming ocean conservation. With growing access to digital tools, AI-driven analysis, and online training programs, ordinary individuals are making extraordinary contributions to the protection of marine ecosystems.

Ocean Sanctuaries, a nonprofit organization at the forefront of marine citizen science, is launching a series of training initiatives to equip the public with the knowledge and skills needed to become ocean researchers, conservationists, and data collectors. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between professional scientists and the general public, ensuring that anyone with a passion for the ocean can contribute meaningfully to marine research.

“You don’t need to be a marine biologist to make a difference,” said Michael Bear, co-founder of Ocean Sanctuaries. “If you can take a photo, record observations, or document environmental changes, you can contribute valuable data to global marine conservation efforts.”

Why Citizen Science Matters in Ocean Conservation

The ocean covers more than 70% of our planet, yet much of it remains unexplored and under-monitored. Scientists rely on data to understand ecosystem health, biodiversity changes, and the impact of climate change, but there simply aren’t enough professional researchers to collect all the data needed. This is where citizen scientists step in.

Benefits of citizen science in marine research:

• Expanding research capabilities – With thousands of volunteers contributing observations, scientists can gather significantly more data than they could alone.
• Improving conservation efforts – Real-time, community-gathered data helps identify threatened species, track habitat destruction, and inform conservation policies.
• Increasing public awareness and engagement – When people participate in research, they become more invested in ocean protection, leading to stronger advocacy and policy support.
• Supporting climate change studies – From sea temperature monitoring to tracking shifts in marine species, citizen science provides critical insights into how oceans are responding to environmental changes.

The Training Initiatives: Turning Passion into Action

Recognizing the power of community-driven conservation, Ocean Sanctuaries has developed a structured citizen science training program to help participants gain scientific skills, understand data collection methods, and actively contribute to marine research projects.

1. Online Citizen Science Courses

Ocean Sanctuaries has launched interactive, online training modules covering:

• Marine Species Identification: Learn how to recognize and document key marine species, from sharks and fish to corals and nudibranchs.
• Data Collection & Submission: Training in how to log sightings, take accurate field notes, and use scientific databases.
• Photography for Research: Guidance on taking clear, scientifically useful underwater photos for species tracking.
• Using Citizen Science Platforms: Training on platforms like iNaturalist, Marine Debris Tracker, and SharkBase, where participants can upload their findings.

These self-paced courses are designed for divers, snorkelers, beachgoers, and ocean enthusiasts of all backgrounds.

“We want to make marine research as accessible as possible,” said Barbara Lloyd, co-founder of Ocean Sanctuaries. “These training courses break down complex scientific concepts into practical, easy-to-follow steps, empowering anyone to contribute to conservation.”

2. Hands-On Field Training: Learning by Doing

For those who prefer in-person learning, Ocean Sanctuaries is organizing Citizen Science Field Workshops, where participants will:

• Join expert-led marine surveys in tide pools, coastal waters, and artificial reefs.
• Participate in bioblitz events—high-energy biodiversity surveys that collect large amounts of data in a short time.
• Gain hands-on experience using marine research tools, underwater photography techniques, and data logging software.

These workshops will take place in key marine biodiversity hotspots, including California’s kelp forests, Florida’s coral reefs, and tide pools along the Pacific coast.

3. Shark Identification & AI-Powered Research

One of the most exciting aspects of citizen science is the ability to combine technology with human observation. Ocean Sanctuaries is training volunteers to participate in the Sevengill Shark ID Project, an initiative that uses AI-driven pattern recognition software to track individual sharks based on unique markings.

• Participants upload shark photos, which AI software then scans to detect distinctive features and track individuals over time.
• This data helps scientists study migration patterns, population sizes, and potential threats to these sharks.
• Volunteers receive specialized training in identifying shark behaviors, habitats, and conservation needs.

“Every single photo submitted by a diver could help us identify a previously undocumented shark,” said Dr. Samantha Collins, a marine data scientist working with the project. “That’s the power of citizen science—it turns ordinary people into key contributors to scientific discovery.”

Bridging Science and Community: The Impact of Public Involvement

Citizen science is more than just data collection—it builds a culture of ocean stewardship. Many individuals who start as volunteers go on to become advocates for marine protection, educators, and even community leaders.

Success Stories:

• Volunteers in California have discovered new Sevengill Shark migration routes, providing valuable insights for conservationists.
• A high school teacher incorporated marine citizen science into her curriculum, inspiring students to become active participants in ocean conservation.
• Divers monitoring artificial reefs have logged critical changes in biodiversity, helping researchers assess the effectiveness of reef restoration efforts.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of citizen science is seeing how it transforms people’s relationship with the ocean,” said Lloyd. “Once someone starts documenting marine life, they begin to see the ocean in a whole new way. They become lifelong advocates for conservation.”

The Future of Citizen Science: Scaling Up for Greater Impact

As citizen science continues to grow, Ocean Sanctuaries aims to expand its programs, reaching more people and generating even greater conservation impact. Future initiatives include:

• Developing a mobile app where volunteers can log real-time ocean observations.
• Expanding global partnerships with universities, conservation groups, and government agencies.
• Launching youth engagement programs to train the next generation of marine scientists and ocean advocates.

“The ocean needs more than just scientists—it needs an entire movement of engaged, informed, and active citizens.” said Bear. “With the right training, anyone can become an ocean hero.”

Get Involved: Become a Citizen Scientist Today

Ocean Sanctuaries invites the public to join this transformative movement. Whether you are a diver, snorkeler, beach explorer, or simply someone who loves the ocean, there’s a place for you in citizen science.

🌊 Sign up for online courses to learn marine research techniques.
🌊 Join a field workshop and gain hands-on experience.
🌊 Participate in conservation projects, from shark tracking to reef monitoring.

To learn more and register for upcoming training programs, visit www.oceansanctuaries.org.

About Ocean Sanctuaries

Founded by Michael Bear and Barbara Lloyd, Ocean Sanctuaries is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering citizen scientists to protect our oceans through education, research, and community engagement. By providing accessible tools and training, Ocean Sanctuaries ensures that anyone with a passion for marine conservation can contribute to meaningful scientific research​.

Media Contact:
Ocean Sanctuaries
Barbara Lloyd
Phone: +1.858.633.7305
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.oceansanctuaries.org