Families across Fylde are invited to become citizen scientists and help protect our precious coastline by simply taking photographs at special fixed points along the shore.
The new ShoreLens community science programme launches this month as part of the innovative Our Future Coast project, giving local people the chance to play a vital role in understanding how our coast is changing. By snapping pictures at dedicated photography posts, residents will help build an invaluable archive showing how our saltmarsh, sand dunes and shoreline respond to storms, sea level changes and habitat restoration work.
The project is part of a ground-breaking £200 million national Flood and Coastal Innovation Programme, managed by the Environment Agency, which is exploring exciting new ways to work with nature rather than relying solely on traditional concrete defences. Here in Fylde, experts are trialling innovative biodegradable grids made from potato starch to help restore damaged saltmarsh at Granny’s Bay. These grids biodegrade naturally within 5-10 years, trapping sediment and supporting saltmarsh plants as they establish, creating natural flood defences whilst providing vital space for wildlife to thrive.
Councillor Tommy Threlfall, Lead Member for Environment, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our residents to get involved in protecting our beautiful coastline for future generations. Every photograph taken helps scientists understand how our coast is responding to the changing climate, and together we’re exploring innovative ways to work with nature rather than against it. I’d encourage families to visit one of our photography posts and become part of this important project, and to further recognise what a beautiful coastline we have in Fylde.”
Residents can start contributing immediately by visiting the ShoreLens posts along our coast and photographing seasonal changes. Local volunteers are also welcome to join marine, bird and plant life surveys to help scientists better understand our saltmarsh habitats.
Each photo tells an important story about our changing coastline – take part today and help safeguard Fylde’s future!
Photography post locations:
- St Pauls
- Granny’s Bay
- Fairlawn Road North
- Fairlawn Road South
- Sand Trials
- Sand Winning Track
- North Beach
- North Prom
Find out more about the Our Future Coast project here.
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