Citizen science breaks down the barriers between scientists and communities. Public involvement in research empowers nature enthusiasts of all abilities to join the frontline of conservation science. Through active participation, members of the public can become advocates for the wild spaces in their communities. 

The Sevenoaks Greensand Commons Project employs citizen science to rediscover the commons of Sevenoaks, Westerham and Seal. The unique mosaic of habitats at the commons provides a home to many rare Kentish plants and animals. Sadly, areas of the commons have fallen victim to invasive plant species which are preventing the restoration of heathland habitat.

At Bitchet Common, a variety of techniques have been used to manage invasive bracken. The community have completed bracken surveys, which seek to estimate the density of the bracken and monitor the success of different removal strategies. volunteers have helped to monitor the regrowth of the bracken, allowing the project to identify the most efficient method of control.

Following the discovery of the white admiral – a high priority butterfly species – at Crockham Hill Common, we set out to record butterfly populations at eight sites across the commons. After reaching out to the local community, a team of volunteers was created. Volunteers received training on identification and walked routes through the commons every week from July to September. Their records are creating a more accurate understanding of the butterflies of the commons which will inform the management of the land. With over 50% of Britain’s butterfly species now featuring on the IUCN Red List, this work comes at a crucial time when we need to build the resilience of our landscapes in the face of the climate and nature crises.

The project also recently hosted its first bioblitz, an event which brings experts and newcomers together to identify as many species as possible in an area. The project is proud to have identified 75 species at Sevenoaks Common! This achievement was made possible by local families, who joined staff in searching for insects and spying for birds.

The Sevenoaks Greensand Commons event has now come to a close but we are pursuing funding for further practical work. In the meantime, if you'd like to take part in citizen science volunteering in other areas of Kent, please contact us here.