Community Science
CoastWatch is a facilitator program, connecting interested people with community science projects relevant to their stretch of beach. We partner with scientists and resource agency researchers. These projects are a form of stewardship in which non-scientists can play a valuable role in gathering information that contributes to research and management on the Oregon coast. For CoastWatch volunteers, it provides an opportunity for an in-depth assessment and investigation on their adopted miles. Some projects involve joining a team for a formal survey using scientific protocols; others simply involve being watchful for specific phenomena and knowing how to report the information. To join one of these projects, contact Jesse Jones, CoastWatch’s volunteer coordinator, at jesse@oregonshores.org.
Marine Debris
Participate in marine debris monitoring using a protocol developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This project involves consistent monthly surveys on an 100-meter stretch of beach. Within that 100-meter stretch, debris is collected in five-meter increments. This can be done in teams of two or more, making it an excellent group activity. CoastWatch trains volunteers for this survey year-round.
For more on marine debris, go here.
Climate Change
Volunteers for the Oregon King Tides Project and photograph the year's highest tides, known as king tides, to demonstrate current coastal flooding vulnerabilities and to anticipate what will become ordinary tide levels with sea level rise. In fall and winter, CoastWatch and the Oregon Coastal Management Program provide outreach and training.
Birds
The beached bird survey, developed by COASST (Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team, based at the University of Washington), involves monthly surveys using a formal protocol. COASST staff trains volunteers online and through training sessions in Oregon, Washington, Alaska and California.
Sea Stars
The sea star observation survey developed by MARINe (the Multi-Agency Rocky Intertidal Network) is a means by which non-scientists can assist scientists studying these keystone intertidal species. CoastWatch staff trains volunteers year-round.
Marine Mammals
CoastWatchers and other observers report marine mammal strandings year-round to the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network. Anyone observing a stranded animal, alive or dead, anywhere on the coast, can assist by submitting an online report.
Dunes
The hybrid beachgrass survey is a collaboration with scientists at Oregon State University. Volunteers help track the spread of a newly discovered beachgrass, a hybrid of the two invasive species of beachgrass that dominate Oregon's coastal foredunes.
Community science, also known as citizen science, produces useful scientific data and allows non-scientists to contribute to scientific research, expanding the collection of specific information needed to broaden understanding, shape ongoing research, and develop management plans. This participation helps scientists with their research, makes discoveries about the coastal environment, connects local communities to their surrounding natural communities, increases access to science education for schools, and empowers residents to contribute to planning for the protection of habitats, species, and special places.
Participation in learning the science of our communities is an important component of environmental science nationally and around the world. The fact that ecosystems are increasingly threatened by human activities makes it more critical to monitor them carefully. There aren’t enough scientists and resource agency personnel to have eyes and ears everywhere, which is why everyday people collecting data can play such a crucial role. By making careful observations and using structured protocols for reporting accurate data, volunteers can extend the reach of scientists and help track changes in the environment.
In the words of Mary Ellen Hannibal, author of the 2016 book Citizen Scientist: Looking for Heroes and Hope in an Age of Extinction, “Citizen science has centuries-old roots and multiple meanings. With technological tools like iNaturalist, regular people can make geo-located observations in nature that allow for the same kind of analysis that inspired Charles Darwin.” She spoke to us in 2021; watch the recorded webinar here.
CoastWatch provides training for projects on a continuing basis. To volunteer or for more information, contact Jesse Jones, CoastWatch Program Manager, jesse@oregonshores.org.
Should it be called "Citizen Science" or "Community Science"?
By any name, this critically needed movement invites the participation of all people, everywhere. Below are some examples of where terminology has changed and why from our friends at Citizenscience.org, Portland Audubon and California Academy of Scientists. Some of our science partners use "citizen science" and others, "community science". We respect both terms while we go through strategic planning in 2023/24. Please share your feeback with us!
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Coming To Terms: Building a Better Vocabulary for Work in (and about) this Field
Why We're Changing from "Citizen Science" to "Community Science"
About the Shift to Community Science