Dr. Matheiu Basille

Extension Program:
Citizen Science Projects

What is citizen science?

Citizen science is characterized as volunteer science, the general public collecting science, and participatory science. The concept is to pair members of the community with scientists to receive training in data collection. The coupling of citizens with scientists allows a broader range of sampling to occur than would otherwise be possible by research scientists alone. Citizens often participate in training programs to collect and report data on a wide variety of topics ranging from insects, birds, and water quality. This information is valuable to expand research, and to educate and engage communities about their surroundings.