PS 46-200 - Citizen Science, Phenology, and Lessons in Long-term Data Collection: Individual Observers versus Local Phenology Program Members.

Wednesday, August 9, 2023

5:00 PM – 6:30 PM PDT

Location: ESA Exhibit Hall

Presenting Author(s)

SB

Samantha A. Brewer

Volunteer Engagement Coordinator
USA-National Phenology Network
Tucson, Arizona, United States

Coauthor(s)

TC

Theresa Crimmins

Director
USA-National Phenology Network
Tucson, Arizona, United States
UT

USA-NPN Team

USA-National Phenology Network, United States

Abstract: Citizen science programs effectively engage members of the public in the scientific endeavor and generate data that can advance understanding, though retaining active participants continues to present significant challenges. Here, we reflect on two approaches employed in Nature's Notebook, the plant and animal phenology observing program coordinated by the USA-NPN, to encourage frequent and sustained data collection. The first approach is the individual observer model, where “backyard observers” create their own study sites and collect data on their chosen plants independant of a larger organization. The second approach is the Local Phenology Program (LPP) model, where a Local Phenology Leader organizes multiple observers to record data on the same plants, usually based at an organization such as an arboretum, wildlife refuge, or school. Both approaches involve the collection of data using the same standardized set of scientific protocols and methods, with the major difference being if participants are collecting data on individual plants as a single entity or as a part of a group. Long-term repeated data collection is vital for understanding phenological patterns in plants and animals, so maintaining volunteer engagement and retention is key to ensuring the longevity and quality of data collected through Nature’s Notebook. In this study, we compared the observation frequency and duration of activity for sites that are tracked by individual observers and LPPs. Sites monitored by LPPs exhibited more frequent observations (23.7±25.8 visits/site/year vs 10.0±19.7 visits/site/year for sites under observation by individuals) and longer duration of observation (on average, 4.6 years) than sites created by individual observers (on average, 1.6 years). In conclusion, the LPP model for collecting phenology observations increases the robustness of data collection and exemplifies the importance of community engagement with citizen science programs. Citizen science participation has increased in popularity over the past two decades, with over 3,000 active citizen science projects and events currently listed on the SciStarter website, volunteers have an abundance of options when deciding which projects are most meaningful to them. These findings can help project planners develop engagement strategies to encourage long-term volunteer participation and robust data collection.