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To know where conservation is needed — and if initiatives have been effective — shorebird scientists require a broad understanding of species populations and trends. In 1974, Manomet organized the volunteer-based International Shorebird Survey (ISS) to gather information on shorebirds and the wetlands they depend on. Through the work of dedicated volunteers conducting field surveys during spring and fall migrations, this monitoring network provides hemispheric data on shorebirds. 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of this incredible collaborative work!
The information gathered through the ISS has proven pivotal to a wide range of shorebird endeavors across the hemisphere including national shorebird conservation plans, site nominations for the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network, and recently the 3 Billion Birds project. To date, hundreds of shorebird enthusiasts have conducted over 100,000 ISS field surveys during spring and fall migrations to gather information on shorebirds and to contribute to scientists’ understanding of species populations and trends.
