Citizen Science: How to Conduct an Earthworm Count
Citizen science is when the public contributes to scientific research - you could be a species expert, or just someone with an interest. In 2024 Bore Place are offering is a series of FREE training sessions to learn to survey for our six key indicator species in a friendly and relaxed group setting. From there, you can then look to take on regular or ad-hoc voluntary surveys at Bore Place, to contribute meaningful data to our work.
- 24 Mar 2024
- 10:00am - 1:00pm
- Bore Place
How to conduct an earthworm count
Why are earthworms a useful indicator species?
Earthworms are an excellent indicator of soil health. They are sensitive to a variety of soil characteristics including pH, waterlogging, compaction, and organic matter, so by undertaking worm counts, we can assess the overall health of our soil. Earthworms are soil-dwelling invertebrates that feed on decaying plant matter. They engineer the structure of the soil, naturally aerating and improving drainage as they burrow. We have around 16 different earthworm species in the UK, each with a different niche in the soil structure.
This training session is one of Bore Place scheduled surveys – so by the end of the session, you’ll already have contributed data to their research. Taking part in any of Bore Place trainings and surveys will give you useful experience you can use elsewhere, too.
Places are limited for each training session and must be pre-booked. Please book here to let us know you’re coming.
If the session is fully booked, please join the waiting list as Bore Place may be able to offer another training session in response to demand.
Important info
- Over 18s only.
- Dress for the weather and in clothes you don’t mind getting mucky – all training sessions are practical and will be outside.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable boots or wellies.
- Feel free to bring water and snacks with you.
- Sorry, no dogs are permitted with the exception of service animals.