Sam Dawson
Beached! Lincolnshire
Recording what washes up on our shores
What is the strandline?
The strandline is the line of debris left behind at the highest point of the tide. It’s a natural collection point for seaweed, shells, and marine life, and a valuable window into what’s happening beneath the waves.
Why do we want to record dead marine life?
By exploring the strandline, we can gather important information about the species living in our seas that have washed up on the beach, and track changes in the marine environment over time.
Project Aims
This project has been developed to:
- Record species found along strandlines on the Lincolnshire coast
- Monitor seasonal changes in marine life
- Identify invasive, rare and climate change indicator species
- Compare strandline composition between different beaches
- Document mass stranding events
1. Register with iRecord
Sign up for a free account on iRecord and join the “Beached! Lincolnshire” activity.
2. Visit the Strandline
Go to your local beach and look for the strandline - the natural line of debris left by the tide - and search for marine species.
3. Take Clear Photographs
- Capture close-up images of each species
- Take photos from multiple angles where possible
4. Submit Your Records
Upload your sightings via iRecord, ensuring you include:
- Date
- Location (as specific as possible)
- Photos for verification
All submissions will be reviewed and added to the Lincolnshire Environmental Records Centre database.
Matt Blissett
Recording Mass Strandings
If you encounter a mass stranding, also known as a wreck (for example, large numbers of the same species, such as starfish or razorshells):
- Record the approximate size or length of the affected area and note this in the comments box on iRecord when you submit the species sighting
- Take multiple photographs
Why It Matters
Your records will help:
- Build a clearer picture of marine biodiversity in Lincolnshire
- Support conservation and research work
- Track environmental change along the coast
Volunteer Surveyors
As the project develops, there will be opportunities to become a trained volunteer surveyor.
Surveyors will:
- Monitor a specific site regularly (e.g. monthly)
- Follow a standardised methodology
- Record environmental conditions and other survey data
Training will be provided to ensure high-quality, consistent data collection. Please contact our marine conservation officer if this is something you would be interested in: lstorer@lincstrust.co.uk
Health & Safety
When taking part, please remember:
- Check tide times - surveys are best carried out as the tide goes out
- Do not pick up sharp or hazardous objects
- Leave wildlife in place, as it plays an important role in the ecosystem even when dead!
- Let someone know where you are and avoid surveying alone
Keep an eye on our events page for upcoming guided strandline surveys and identification sessions at our coastal reserves!