Abstract:

The Allen Coral Atlas (http://allencoralatlas.org) partnership uses high-resolution satellite imagery, machine learning, and field data to map and monitor the world’s coral reefs at unprecedented global coverage. As the Atlas team develops maps of benthic habitat and reef geomorphology regionally and globally, and dynamic monitoring technology, the initiative’s goal is to enable stakeholders to achieve conservation results and improve access to spatial data (e.g., through marine spatial planning or restoration efforts). Zoë Lieb, the project coordinator for field engagement, will introduce the Atlas itself, how it is made, and some of its functions; Dr. Chris Roelfsema will give an in depth explanation of the mapping process, specifically in the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding regions.

Biography:

Zoë Lieb is the project coordinator on the Field Engagement team for the Allen Coral Atlas. Coming from a conservation biology background, she was the primary investigator for the Mongolian Bankhar Dog Project, working towards solutions to human-wildlife coexistence issues among nomadic herding communities. She received her MS in Conservation Biology from University of Kent in the United Kingdom in 2019. Her expertise includes program development and community-supported conservation strategies.

Chris Roelfsema is a senior research fellow at University of Queensland and leads a team of ecologists and earth observation specialists with collecting field data and developing and implementing the habitat mapping for the Allen Coral Atlas. With 20 years of experience he is specialised in integrating field data, citizen science, physical attributes (e.g. depth, waves) and earth observation science to map and monitor coral reef and seagrass habitats globally.