The Rapid Monitoring survey is about using simple science to introduce to you the main threats that are affecting the Great Barrier Reef.

The Rapid Monitoring survey can be used by participants with little to moderate reef experience. Anyone who can snorkel confidently can participate in the program. The individual can choose their level of involvement.

People snorkeling, diving or viewing coral reefs are able to record what they see and provide that data to GBRMPA.

As part of the overarching Eye on the Reef Program, the Rapid Monitoring survey can be used to collect information on protected and iconic species distribution, after Reef health incidents, or to give us an early warning of Reef health impacts under GBRMPA's Reef Health Incident Response System. This overarching system assesses Reef impacts and helps use to keep an eye on the health and resilience of the Reef as a whole.

The Rapid Monitoring survey is more detailed than a Sightings Network report, but not as extensive as the survey required for the Tourism Weekly Monitoring program or a Reef Health and Impact Survey.

The strength of the program is that it can be used repeatedly at the same site to get an idea of changes over time, or deployed anywhere, on any coral reef to get a basic snapshot of reef health.

The short time required, the simplified steps and the use of diagrams on the underwater slate means this program can be easily adopted by people who may not  have a scientific background.  The data collected is of value to reef managers as it can alert them to possible reef health impacts throughout the Reef.

Participants that may gain particular value from the program include:

• School groups: use the survey as an introduction to reef biology, and then submit and view the data via the Eye on the Reef database
• Tourism operators: involve your visitors in a "natural history" dive that collects real data that will be used to manage and support the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef
• Indigenous communities: get involved and use Rapid Monitoring to keep track of your sea country
• Fishers: take the opportunity whilst out on the Reef to take a closer look and let us know what you are seeing.

Guidelines and colour photographs on the back of the form allow participants to follow Rapid Monitoring procedure and identify the necessary categories. GBRMPA staff can be contacted for feedback and assistance.

Further information

Interested in participating or want to know more? Email eyeonthereef@gbrmpa.gov.au