Citizen Science


What is Citizen Science?

Citizen science is the practice of public participation and collaboration in scientific research to increase scientific knowledge. Through citizen science, people share and contribute to data monitoring and collection programs.
citizen science
The Niagara Falls Public Library ( both branches) offer kits to engage families to learn more about the world around them.  These kits can be borrowed with an adult library card in good standing, for up to 3 weeks.


Exploring Biodiversity introduces participants to the iNaturalist app and includes a clip-on lens that expands the photo capabilities of a smartphone. A pair of binoculars and a Community Field Book help support nature exploration and encourage participants to record notes and observations about the natural world around them. Data submitted via the app contributes to a living record of life on Earth that scientists and land managers can use to monitor changes in biodiversity, while also providing a helpful database that anyone can use to identify plants and animals. This project is appropriate for adults or children with the help of an adult.
birdwatching kit

 

Observing Pollinators
This kit introduces participants to The Great Sunflower Project and includes binoculars and a stopwatch to better observe pollinators in the community. Pollinators are animals including birds, butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, and more that assist plants in their reproductive cycles and are critical to the world’s food supply. In recent years their populations have suffered severe declines, especially among honeybee colonies. Volunteers will help scientists understand and respond to changes in pollinator populations and the types of flowering plants that pollinators prefer by observing any flowering plant for at least five minutes, counting and identifying the pollinators that visit the plant, then logging data online.  This project is appropriate for adults or children with the help of an adult.
polinators
 
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