From Data to Management: A Community-Based, Citizen Science Approach to Dugong Conservation in the Lease Islands MPA

The Lease Islands in Maluku Province host seagrass ecosystems that serve as important habitats for dugongs, yet for more than two decades, data on their presence has been limited. The lack of scientific information and low community awareness have challenged local conservation efforts.

This solution integrates dugong monitoring through a citizen science approach by engaging fishers and coastal communities to report sightings, verified by MPA managers and NGO partners. It is strengthened by awareness activities and participatory village regulations.

Surveys conducted at the start and end of the program show increases in community knowledge from 63% to 84% and in willingness to protect dugongs from 70% to 98%. From 2023 to 2025, 58 sightings were recorded – 30 by communities, 28 by MPA managers, and NGO partners. One village regulation was established, and all data and documents from this program was submitted to the provincial government to support adaptive MPA management.

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