Back in the field at last

It was great to be back outside in March delivering in-person eDNA training. The Cornwall Beaver Project made for a brilliant location to do it. After a morning of theory and sampling design, we spent the afternoon in the field collecting samples alongside the beaver ponds.

The course covered both the theory and practice of eDNA. We worked through how genetic material is shed, transported, and detected in the environment, before getting into sampling design, which is where the course really gets into its stride. Participants learnt about eDNA dilution and distribution in different sample types and for various taxa, helping them to design informed surveys.

The group was a great mix of conservation practitioners and academics from across the South West, which made for really good discussion throughout the day, both in the classroom and out in the field.

Out in the field, we collected six samples across three matrix types: water, soil, and surface. We will now process them in our laboratory to identify the invertebrate communities living in and around the beaver ponds. Given the habitat complexity that beavers create, we're expecting some interesting results. Watch this space!

"Awesome informative day! Soaked up a lot of enthusiasm from Laura and Buffy."

"A really great and useful course making eDNA seem more accessible as a survey tool. Buffy and Laura delivered the training so well, making eDNA seem less 'scary'. I'm excited to explore opportunities to apply it through work."

"The course was brilliant and completely demystified eDNA as a research methodology."

"Love the booklet - really helpful summary to take away. Great venue and good to have a go at the different methods. Very knowledgeable trainers."

Big thanks to Chris and Felicity for hosting us and for giving us access to such a fantastic site. We highly recommend stopping for a tour if you're in the area.

You can find out more information about our training courses here. If you know a site that you think would be perfect for a course and would like to host us, get in touch!