Cool Universe Links to Citizen Science Opportunities

You don't have to be a scientist to contribute to ongoing research or special projects. Check with local science museums or universities for volunteer opportunities. Here are some suggestions with information on the web. If you know of others, please let me know.

Project Feederwatch
If you feed the birds in winter, or want to, you can record your feathered guests and help ornithologists identify and understand population changes. There is a $15 participation fee, but you get clear (easy) instructions, identification help and more.

Cornell Lab of Ornithology
FeederWatch (above) is just one Cornell University project, check out e-Bird, nest watching, urban bird programs and get the skinny on how to join in the annual Great Backyard Bird Count (February).

Pathfinder Science
If you are a teacher, don't miss this great online resource. Projects include North American Lichen Mapping, Stream Monitoring, Monarch (Butterfly) Watch, Amphibian Monitoring and a historical study of study of African-American Immigration.

Adirondack Science Online
The Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks conducts a cooperative Loon Natural History project, an Adirondack Weather Project, a New York River Otter Project and much more.

FrogWatch USA
This terrific national project was conceived by the National Wildlife Federation and can be found on the Association of Zoos and Aquariums website.

Audubon Citizen Science
Calling all birders...nearly every local chapter has specific, on-going projects for which they need volunteers.

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center- Neighborhood NestWatch
Join this backyard biology study of avian biology.

South Dakota Division of Wildlife
Training sessions are provided for those who want to watch frogs and monarch butterflies, collect owl pellets or monitor the Sioux River.

National Weather Service Cooperative Observer Program
Record temperature, snowfall, rainfall and help measure climate change.