Citizen science is the collaboration between the public and professional scientists to conduct research, where volunteers help collect and analyze data, contribute observations (like bird counts or water quality), and participate in the scientific process to answer real-world questions, expanding knowledge in fields from astronomy to ecology.
Numerous organizations (many local non-profits) employ the “citizen science” model to gather data for their specific objective. Over the last couple of years I have participated in several of these efforts. Benefits of voluntary participation in these nature projects:
- Meeting new “like-minded” people
- Learning about new species
- Exploring new geographies
- Contributes to policy and social benefit
- Expands research capabilities
- Lowers cost to the non-profit
Beaver Creek Reserve CBC
As a part of the broader Audubon Christmas Bird Count, I was assigned a section along the lower Chippewa River which included a section of the Tiffany Bottoms Wildlife Area. The day began with a breakfast meeting with the organizer and volunteer participants where objectives and count circles were reviewed. Volunteers were encourages to ask any questions that they had. As the sun rose we all headed out to our assigned areas. I was able to drive my section twice from 7:45 AM to 1:00 PM. I logged 119 miles and ended with a total bird count of 78 birds, 9 species and some new birding friends.
National Eagle Center
The Golden Eagle Project
Ongoing research is dedicated to better understanding the presence of Golden Eagles in the eastern United States. Migratory Golden Eagles come to the region each winter from their nesting territory upwards of 2,000 miles away in northern Canada just below the Arctic Circle. Every January on the third Saturday, the Project conducts its annual Golden Eagle Survey. Volunteer surveyors (citizen scientists) spread out over portions of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, and Arkansas (and growing!) to count Golden Eagle observed. Results are reported and analyzed to develops a better understanding of these migratory eagles.
I will be participating in the Golden Eagle Project again next week. Most years my route produces one or two Goldens along with other wildlife. Here are a couple of images from past years survey.
