Thu, Aug 05, 2021: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Session Organizer:
Susan Blas
Community science has gained popularity in recent years, involving the general public and others in the scientific process, and creating new opportunities for ecological research. It involves open collaboration between individuals and organizations with projects enabling researchers to track ecological trends over larger spatial and temporal scales. At the same time the community becomes more deeply involved in environmental stewardship and understanding of the scientific process. Community scientists participate in a range of projects from climate change, invasive species, conservation biology, restoration, water quality, and monitoring of many kinds. It has been instituted in traditional academic settings, government organizations, non-profits, and also in the classroom. Additionally, apps and social media are often used to reach and engage a larger audience. These presentations will focus on the diversity of community science in the southeast United States to enrich collaboration among research scientists/academics, students, and citizens. From this we aim to enhance collaboration between students and the greater community.