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Growing and Improving: Recommendations for Chesapeake Bay SAV Watchers, a Volunteer Monitoring Program
Letourneau, Stephanie
Letourneau, Stephanie
Abstract
Chesapeake Bay Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) Watchers is a volunteer monitoring program that collects detailed information about SAV habitats in Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries. While the program originated and remains centralized in Maryland, it is designed to be Bay-wide and has the potential for ecological and societal impact across state boundaries, including Virginia. Now in its sixth year and with plans to grow, it is imperative to reassess program goals to ensure that all key players involved, from scientists to volunteers, are meeting expectations and having meaningful experiences. This project focused on three central questions: 1) what is the SAV specific scientific literacy of SAV Watchers trainers and volunteers, 2) what is the effectiveness of the program, including successes and areas for improvement, and 3) what are the anticipated challenges of expansion into Virginia? To answer these questions, certified SAV Watchers trainers and volunteers participated in the evaluation process, which involved a survey and conducting focus groups to capture participant perspectives. Three main themes emerged: 1) Growth and Development, 2) Invest Further, Achieve More, and 3) Sustained Engagement. These themes informed seven overall suggestions for the program, as well as five specific suggestions for expanding into Virginia. This report also provides a framework for evaluating participatory science programs while incorporating community voices. This approach ensures meaningful engagement and sustained success for SAV Watchers participants and partners, advancing SAV science, restoration, and conservation efforts throughout Chesapeake Bay.
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2025-01-01
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Virginia Institute of Marine Science
DOI
https://doi.org/10.25773/4x2k-zn90