MP finalises plan for Asian Waterbird Census 2026:Census on January 3–4 to document waterbird abundance, wetland health via public participation across state

Amid the ongoing All India Tiger Estimation, Madhya Pradesh is simultaneously gearing up for the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2026, scheduled for January 3 and 4, with focused planning for districts such as Indore where wetlands are increasingly under urban pressure. The preparations were finalised during a state-level video conference held last week, organised by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department, during which a detailed plan, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and supervisory mechanisms were discussed to ensure uniform execution across the state. State-level planning and SOPs finalised Forest officials reviewed digital data-collection protocols, field deployment strategies and inter-division coordination. The aim, officials said, is to generate scientifically comparable data across wetlands while maintaining data integrity and participant safety during the field exercise. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Indore Pradeep Mishra said the census assumes added significance for urbanising districts. Wetlands in and around Indore are under constant pressure due to land-use changes. The census helps us understand their ecological condition through bird population trends, he said. Key wetlands in Indore under focus Indore hosts some of the most significant urban wetlands in central India. Sirpur Lake, a major human-made wetland restored into a bird sanctuary, has been designated a Ramsar Site and is known for its rich diversity of migratory and resident birds, fish species and aquatic vegetation. Yashwant Sagar, another Ramsar site near Gulawat, is also a key waterbody for birding and recreation, though it faces increasing development pressure. Forest officials said these wetlands not only support biodiversity but also play a vital role in flood buffering, groundwater recharge and providing recreational green spaces for the city, making their ecological monitoring critical. Wetlands as ecological indicators According to the Forest Department, Indore’s lakes, reservoirs and seasonal wetlands function as wintering and stopover habitats for waterbirds. The diversity and abundance recorded during the census act as early indicators of wetland health, reflecting water quality, habitat stability and food availability. Regular, standardised counts allow us to detect long-term population changes and emerging threats such as encroachment or eutrophication before the damage becomes irreversible, Mishra said. Citizen science at the core of the exercise The Asian Waterbird Census follows a citizen-science driven model, integrating trained volunteers with forest staff. Birdwatchers, wetland conservationists, students and local residents are expected to participate across Indore and nearby areas. “Public participation strengthens data accuracy and builds long-term ownership of wetlands,” Mishra said, adding that student involvement is especially important for nurturing future conservation awareness. Digital reporting and field methodology All participants will register under the designated Asian Waterbird Census eBird Project, ensuring geo-referenced and time-stamped data submission. Each team will also submit a Wetland Assessment Form, documenting habitat characteristics and human pressures to enable contextual analysis of bird counts. As per the SOPs, each field team will consist of at least three members with bird-identification and basic digital skills and will be assigned specific waterbodies to avoid duplication and ensure full coverage. Supervision, safety and coordination Range Officers and Sub-Divisional Officers will supervise field execution, while District Forest Officers will coordinate monitoring to ensure synchronised counts across all sites. The Forest Department will provide identification material, logistical support where required and limited photographic documentation for verification. Why public awareness matters Emphasising the broader conservation context, Mishra said wetland protection cannot rely solely on regulation. Urban wetlands like those in Indore are critical for climate moderation, flood control and water security. When citizens understand their value, conservation outcomes improve significantly, he said.