CAOLAS has long enjoyed working with our local primary schools to explore the incredible coastal environments we live alongside. As threats such as litter and invasive species grow, fostering a community of young nature stewards is key, particularly to support the sustainability of restoration efforts, such as Loch Aline Native Oyster Project. With this in mind, our summer school programme is focusing on developing the next generation’s skills in coastal observation and species identification.
Exploring Biodiversity at Achnaha
Our first session took place at the beach below Achnaha Community Woodlands, owned by Morvern Community Woodlands, with the pupils from Lochaline and Kilchoan Primaries. We began in the woodland shelter, reviewing worksheets and preparing for the day. Although oysters aren’t found at Achnaha, the beach is incredibly biodiverse, with sandy shores, saltmarshes, and rocky patches supporting a range of life.
Coastal Scavenger Hunt
To explore this biodiversity, we set off on a coastal scavenger hunt. Pupils searched for native species like periwinkles and bladderwrack, while also learning to identify invasive species and litter, two key threats to marine health. We hid shells of invasive slipper limpet and Pacific oyster for students to find, helping them practice identification and understand their impact. These species pose a particular threat to native oysters, so early detection and awareness are vital.
Understanding Species Adaptations
Next, we explored how different habitats support different organisms. We studied species adaptations, like how seaweeds use holdfasts to cling to rocks in strong tidal areas. Through this, students saw firsthand how each habitat plays a role in supporting different species, and how even small features can be crucial to a species’ survival.
Monitoring Oysters at Lochaline Harbour
Later, we welcomed Strontian Primary School for a session at Lochaline Harbour, as the rain prompted some lesson plan adaptations. Between showers, we managed a scavenger hunt by the loch. There were differences in the species found at Loch Aline, compared with Achnaha. Sadly, it appears Loch Aline has fewer species than at Achnaha – but we hope that our oyster restoration project in the loch can improve biodiversity over time. Helping us with our restoration efforts, the students helped monitor the growth of our young oysters living in nursery cages. Pupils worked in groups to weigh and measure at least ten oysters, noting any marine life growing on their shells. Younger students used rulers, while older ones tried their hand at using calipers. To measure an oyster, students placed the tips on the widest points of the shell, noting the length and width of the individual in millimetres. Strontian pupils did an excellent job as citizen scientists, helping us collect data to assess the growth of our young oysters.
Nature Stewards
By building skills in identification, observation, and nature stewardship, we hope to help future generations care for these ecosystems, securing a healthier future for our coasts and, crucially, for our oysters! We look forward to welcoming more local schools here in the days to come.