Learning to listen – eDNA training on Country

For the past few years, GLaWAC has been using eDNA to help build a clearer picture of the health of the Gippsland Lakes and surrounding waterways.

eDNA is genetic material left behind in the environment by animals, plants and other living things. By collecting and testing water samples, we can identify species that have recently passed through an area, helping us monitor biodiversity, track changes over time and better understand the health of Country.

This year, that work is expanding westward, and so even more staff from across our On Country teams are getting skilled up by EnviroDNA.

The training day began with an introduction to the science behind eDNA before crews headed out on Country. They then learned how to use the equipment, collect samples correctly and prepare them for analysis. Later, they will learn how to analyse the findings. A huge thank you goes out to the superstar team from EnviroDNA –Josh Griffiths, Isaac Di Natale and Brendan Cohen.

The beauty of eDNA testing is that it is simple to do, highly sensitive, non-invasive and efficient. Collect a water sample, and you can identify species that have recently passed through an area – without disturbing a thing. Learning these skills also gives GLaWAC ownership of the data being gathered on Country – who is collecting it, how it is collected and what we do with it.

Over time, it all adds up – a growing picture of how Country is changing and responding to how we care for it, season by season, site by site.

Pretty powerful stuff from a water sample.

EnviroDNA also made this fab video on the training day.