Team The project is led by James Rood, an offshore engineer and tropical seagrass scientist with experience in marine ecosystems and offshore operations. The core field team currently consists of five local coastal community members, including irregular fishermen and women involved in seaweed farming. These participants are currently being trained to assist with marine monitoring activities, including sonar survey operations, BRUV deployments, and intertidal seagrass surveys. The goal is to build a locally operated monitoring team capable of conducting repeatable biodiversity surveys in the Menai Bay Conservation Area. Training focuses on practical field skills such as boat operations, equipment deployment, habitat observation, and basic data collection protocols. Over time, the Nyamanzi site will expand this model into a regional training hub for marine monitoring, providing practical skills development and creating new livelihood opportunities linked to ecosystem stewardship.