Linda Harris, Ph.D.

Strengthening sandy beach conservation in the Western Indian Ocean

Sandy shores are often overlooked as distinct coastal ecosystems with an important role in the life histories of numerous threatened marine species, including shorebirds, sea turtles, and horseshoe crabs. Beaches also provide human ecosystem services, such as protection for shorelines and support for small-scale fisheries that sustain coastal communities. Despite their importance, sandy beaches face increasing threats from overuse, development, sand mining, and sea level rise.

Linda Harris will produce key information concerning sandy beaches and will identify conservation priorities for these vital ecosystems in the Western Indian Ocean. Using a combination of remote sensing and field surveys, Dr. Harris will classify and map sandy beach ecosystems across 10 countries in southern Africa. She will use this information to assess the distribution, ecological condition, threat status, and protection levels of these ecosystems to inform regional conservation efforts. Dr. Harris will also establish a regional network of scientists and practitioners focused on sandy beach management and provide training and tools to help continue their work. She will convene an international research symposium in South Africa to share findings, promote collaboration, and raise awareness about the need for sandy beach conservation.

To learn more about Dr. Harris, read her bio.

See the full list of 2025 Pew marine fellows.