An Intertidal Biodiversity Monitoring Framework to Support Climate Adaptation in the Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park

The Boston Harbor Islands are the only coastal drumlin archipelago in the United States, featuring a distinctive geological intertidal habitat known as mixed coarse substrate which supports a diverse range of coastal species and ecological processes. Recently designated as one of America’s 11 most endangered historic places due to climate change impacts, the Boston Harbor Islands face significant challenges from rising sea levels, erosion, increased storm frequency, and non-indigenous species. This webinar will present a comprehensive intertidal biodiversity monitoring framework developed to support future climate adaptation and restoration efforts for the Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park. The framework, which was developed in collaboration with National Park Service staff, was field tested and refined across multiple islands and sites, and integrates traditional (e.g. visual surveys) and modern (e.g. eDNA) methods to provide robust baseline data on intertidal communities. We will discuss the development of this novel framework and the results of our study, highlighting unique biodiversity captured by the different methods, including the presence and abundance of keystone, protected, and non-indigenous species. This research addresses the need for standardized monitoring in intertidal habitats and offers a framework for coastal managers to protect both the ecological and cultural integrity of these historic islands facing rapid environmental change. 

Registration information for this webinar will be available shortly.