Photo by Leia Althauser
Looking for something to do this summer? Try tracking bumblebees, finding stars, and identifying disease in trees. These are just a few of the ways you and your family can get to know more about the ecological and built environments in your community.
Community science is when non-scientists collect data to contribute to the community’s knowledge and understanding of phenomena. Washington has a rich variety of community science opportunities; chances are there is a community science program near you! Community science can be done in places as close as your backyard, balcony or windowsill.
Community science programs teach kids (and adults) powerful skills such as observation, identification, data entry, and more. It also helps connect classroom learning with real-world application of knowledge. Finally, it gives community members an opportunity to contribute meaningful information to scientists throughout the state, and can influence policy. According to one study, community science contributes to community empowerment by:
Being community driven and community controlled,
Involving local knowledge and collective action,
Improving conservation, livelihood, and governance outcomes1,
Check out this compiled list of community science programs throughout the state.
We hope you, your family, and your community have a great summer exploring and learning about the world around you. Happy #exploring!
1 Charles, Anthony, et al. “Community science: A typology and its implications for governance of social-ecological systems.” Environmental Science and Policy, vol. 106, no. April, 2020, pp. 77-86.