GREEN NEWS & VIEWS
What is Citizen Science?
BY THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Citizen science is science for everyone!
Specifically, citizen science is when the public voluntarily helps conduct scientific research. Citizen scientists may design experiments, collect data, analyze results, and solve problems. In national parks, most citizen scientists collect data with tools provided by project di - rectors. These data help professional scientists and resource manag- ers answer scientific questions and solve important problems. And the activity helps participants build meaningful connections to science. Anyone can be a citizen scientist, regardless of where they’re from. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what your background is. All it takes is some time, curiosity, and a sense of wonder. Why Does the National Park Service Support Citizen Sci- ence? For two reasons — good management of parks, and good experi- ences for visitors. To manage national parks, the National Park Service (NPS) uses the best available scientific information. Sometimes the best way to get that information is through citizen science projects. For example, managers might need to know when certain kinds of plants bloom during the spring. Data on flower timing can help them know which butterflies need special protection, or when to mow a field. They might not have enough time to count all those flowers across the park. But hundreds of visitors hiking in the park can use a mobile app to record when and where flowers bloom. Citizen science is also a great way for visitors to enjoy and learn
Identifying the contents in a net. Source: NPS/S. Muether about science and their parks. In a recent law, Congress affirmed that the NPS has a public education role and responsibility. Citizen science helps the NPS fill that role. One of the best ways to learn science is to do science. And by doing science, people can appreciate their parks in new ways. Why Use the Term “Citizen Science?” There is healthy debate worldwide about what to call public in- volvement in scientific research. Some people prefer the term “com - munity science” out of concern that “citizen science” implies that only legal citizens of a country can participate. You may wonder why this continued on page 44
Located in Springfield, VA www.corridanwellness.com We offer; so you can FEEL BETTER : • Acupuncture • Chiropractic • Herbs • Cupping • Sports Therapy Massage • Energy Work • Facials • RTT Hypnotherapy • Reiki • Craniosacral and more!
20% OFF 1st visit for mentioning this AD!! Expires 9/1/23
Casey Corridan
PATHWAYS—Summer 23—43
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker