Small Collections Grant

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From Paper to Pixel : Herbarium Digitization Initiative for Preserving Botanical Heritage “The Stewart Collection”

mahrine.rashid@gmail.com

Pakistan

Database, Digitally image, Conserve

Cost (USD):

2000

RAW

National herbarium of Pakistan, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, Islamabad

Objective:

1. Digitize fragile, aging type specimens to prevent degradation and ensure long-term survival.
2. Develop a digital repository, enabling global researchers to study rare and historical specimens remotely.
3. Reduce contact with delicate specimens by providing high-resolution digital records.
4. Organize metadata, taxonomy, and geolocation to support research in botany, conservation, and climate studies.
5. Use AI, high-resolution imaging, and database integration to improve specimen identification and data accuracy.

Timetable:

Month 1-2: Planning & Setup
a. Assess and catalog type specimens, prioritizing fragile ones.
b. Identify holotypes and related type categories.
c. Set up digitization station with cameras and lighting.
d. Establish research collaborations.
Month 3: Imaging & Data Capture
a. Start high-quality imaging using a DSLR and LED lights.
b. Capture metadata using OCR tools.
Month 4-5: Data Entry & Standardization
a. Extract and standardize metadata (Darwin Core).
b. Recruit volunteers for data entry.
c. Collect specimens from unexplored areas.
Month 6-7: Database Development
a. Develop an online platform and upload data.
b. Integrate with GBIF or other databases.
c. Continue field collection.
Month 8-9: Quality Control
a. Verify images and metadata accuracy.
b. Resolve any data or imaging issues.
Month 10-12: Final Review & Preservation
a. Conduct final checks and ensure long-term digital storage.
b. Secure physical specimens for preservation

Applicant's CV

Budget

Scoring Rubric

Reviewer's name:

Collection Improvement (max. 120 points)

Facilitating access to the physical collections by digitization (e.g., data entry, setting up database structure with an outline of the platform to be used, purchasing equipment, and imaging specimens) – up to 30 points.
Enhancing physical collections by improving the conservation status of specimens in the herbarium (e.g., better folders, protecting covers, mounting paper, labeling, etc.) – up to 30 points.
Curating specimens (e.g., updating families, species identification, identifying types) – up to 20 points.
Increasing our understanding of the flora or funga by making new herbarium specimens available, such as processing of backlog or collecting and mounting of new specimens from understudied sites – up to 20 points.
Securing collections by distribution of duplicates (or orphan collections) to other regional or international herbaria or shipping endangered collections to another herbarium – up to 20 points.

This proposal scores:

/120

Methods & Funding (max. 40 points)

Match between the proposed budget and methods for the aims described – up to 10 points.
Perceived need, the extent to which the project will benefit from IAPT funding: e.g., due to active floristic work or contribution to poorly collected sites, due to threatened conditions of collections, and for the degree of involvement of others (outreach and education). We give more points for herbaria in low- and middle-income countries – up to 20 points.
Sharing duplicate specimens with other herbaria – up to 10 points.

This proposal scores:

/40

Broader Impacts (max. 40 points)

Degree of regional importance of the collection or the taxonomic importance of the targeted collection – up to 10 points.
The project will yield durable benefits (specimens, digitized metadata, databases, websites) – up to 15 points.
The project involves outreach/mentoring and broad dissemination – up to 15 points.

This proposal scores:

/40

Proposal

2024

Year of last successful SCG application:

Has applicant applied for SCG before?:

Plan:

1- High-Resolution Imaging & Metadata Capture – Utilize specialized scanners and cameras to digitize specimens with precision, ensuring preservation and scientific accuracy. Each image will be linked to standardized metadata, including taxonomy, collection date, and location, facilitating research and classification.
2- Database Development & Online Access – Establish a digital repository with a user-friendly interface, allowing global researchers to remotely access and analyze historical specimens. Integration with platforms like GBIF and /or other open access forum will enhance visibility and collaboration.
3- Conservation Handling & Restoration – Implement best practices for handling fragile specimens during digitization. Use acid-free materials and restoration techniques to prevent degradation and extend specimen longevity.
4- Automation & AI Integration – Leverage AI-driven tools for image recognition, automated labeling, and georeferencing, improving efficiency and data accuracy while reducing manual workload.
5- Collaboration & Training – Partner with botanical institutions, universities, and IT experts to develop standardized workflows. Conduct training programs for staff to ensure proper digitization techniques and metadata management.
6- Sustainable Data Storage & Backup – Employ secure cloud storage, local backups, and redundant systems to ensure the long-term digital preservation of the collection, protecting invaluable botanical data from loss .

Institution:

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Applicant First Name/s:

email:

"Other" target:

Mahrine Rashid

Applicant Last Name/s: