This quarter has brought together fieldwork, system maintenance, data management and preparations for transition, reflecting both the breadth of SAERI’s work and the importance of continuity in delivering it.
Thermal Drone Surveys of Seabird Colonies
Fieldwork this quarter included thermal drone surveys at Gypsy Cove and Rookery Bay, focusing on burrowing seabirds. Using thermal imagery might allow us to detect heat signatures from them, offering a non-invasive way to better understand colony distribution and activity.
These surveys may provide valuable insights into species that are otherwise difficult to monitor, and contribute to improving how we assess and protect vulnerable seabird populations across the Falklands.
Maintaining Core Data Infrastructure
A portion of time has been dedicated to maintaining SAERI’s data systems. This has included renewing security certificates, uploading new datasets, and carrying out metadata cleaning across the Falkland Islands Data Portal and associated WebGIS platforms.
Ensuring that these systems remain secure, accessible and well-structured is essential, particularly as reliance on these platforms continues to grow across research, government and the wider community.
Supporting Data Collection and Access
Routine data collection has continued, including the ingestion of weather station and AIS datasets into PostgreSQL databases and their publication through the Falkland Islands Data Portal.
Alongside this, I have been handling a range of data requests from researchers, FIG, and local farmers, helping ensure that data is accessible and usable for both scientific and practical applications.
Ongoing maintenance of weather stations has also been necessary, particularly as some of the equipment begins to show its age.
Advancing Tools for Conservation and Management
Development work has continued on the ACAP Django-based data submission platform, incorporating feedback from JNCC to improve usability and functionality. This will support more streamlined and standardised data collection for seabird bycatch monitoring.
In addition, I have supported the development of a Hazardous Chemical Substances mapping application for the Falkland Islands Government. This tool is designed to assist emergency services in responding to incidents such as fires by providing clear, spatially referenced information on hazardous materials. Still in development, but the concept is viewable here - FIG_Hazard_Mapping - FIG Hazardous Substances - Lizmap
Engagement and Knowledge Sharing
This quarter has also included opportunities to share knowledge more widely. I assisted in a presentation to guests aboard the FRAM, with my section focusing on CTD data, which we receive from HX Expeditions, and the importance of open data repositories in supporting science and decision-making.
I have also supported wider SAERI drone operations by facilitating the lifting of geo-restrictions through the appropriate regulatory channels, ensuring that others can operate effectively where required.
Preparing for Handover
I will soon be moving on to new adventures, so I have been supporting the interviews conducted for my replacement and developing detailed handover documentation. I aim to ensure that the incoming postholder is well-positioned to continue delivering and building upon SAERI’s data and GIS capabilities from day one.
I have also been updating the Falkland Islands Government Annual Report documentation that SAERI provide highlighting the efforts made against agreed MoUs, to ensure clarity and continuity for future reporting.
