CoastSnap base at Las Canteras: shoreline study through citizen science

Abstract

This study investigates the application of citizen science for monitoring coastal dynamics at Las Canteras beach (Gran Canaria, Spain) using the CoastSnap program. A CoastSnap station, installed in May 2023 enabled the collection of citizen- contributed photographs, providing an innovative and cost-effective method for shoreline monitoring. The primary objective was to assess the effectiveness and accuracy of this approach in monitoring shoreline and beach width changes, such as erosion and accretion. The images were processed using photogrammetric techniques and an automatic shoreline detection algorithm, ensuring accurate and consistent extraction of shoreline data. These data were analyzed to quantify changes in beach width and shoreline position over time. Results demonstrated significant participation, particularly from local residents, with peak contributions during the summer months and weekends. The analysis revealed notable shoreline variability driven by tidal conditions and storm wave events. The study highlights the potential of citizen science to complement traditional coastal monitoring methods, offering a scalable and sustainable approach for preserving and managing coastal ecosystems.