Wonder Wednesday 147: Winter Citizen Science
Citizen Science on the Solstice
Solstice is December 21, and that means winter will officially begin! So this Wonder Wednesday 147, as we get closer to the longest night and welcoming winter, let's make citizen science a part of our seasonal nature observations and journaling!
There are lots of ways to do this, across all areas of nature interests and access, and across all the seasons. It's just about finding a program that fits you! And I've made you a pocket pdf for you to have extra fun (aka phone free) tracking out in the field!
One of my favorite non-profit organizations is Protect Our Winters (aka POW) and this project is inspired by their tireless efforts to keep our winters (and summers) healthy for centuries more outdoor fun!
POW reminds us that since we're "already spending time outdoors, why not make your adventures count for more? As a citizen scientist, you can help researchers understand our changing climate and its impact on the places you love. Whether you’re skiing, biking, or going on a nature walk, your contributions make a difference!"
I'm all for this! How about you? Yeah? Okay! Let's go!
The Concern:
Citizen science is always important, but it is ever more important with the recent acceleration of climate warming, as well as major governmental changes, potential federal research funding losses, and unnerving "creative applications" or even suppression of important weather and other scientific data.
We can protect what we love and keep the global climate and nature databases strong by contributing our own resources and
place-based knowledge to the scientists who are out there helping to mitigate climate change on a global scale.
Toward A Solution:
Spending time in nature doing what we love with people we love - Yes please! In times of transition or anxiousness (and even in regular times too) one of the the best things we can do for health and happiness is to take meaningful actions - and to keep grounding our heads and hearts in the tangible, the wonder, and the awe of nature.
This can include community care and nature connection, among other care acts like mindfulness meditation, art and beauty immersion, and savoring all the good with those we love. And it definitely could include Citizen science!
Wonder Wednesday 147: Winter Citizen Science
Materials
A Pencil
A Winter Citizen Science Journal for each participant:
Click here to download your pdf
Choose an organization with which you would like to participate in Citizen Science
(see the procedure section for ideas & links)
Preparation
Print out the Journal on standard printer paper - Check printer settings so the entire image is set to print
Fold page in half horizontally (hot dog as some say)
Then fold page in half vertically (hamburger as some say)
Fold in half again (hamburger)
The journal cover page should be in front and "Reflections" page on back.
The book will now be 1/8 size (pocket size)
Procedure
Follow the instructions of your chosen organization/s for data collection in the field and for reporting on an app or website.
Put your journal and a pencil in your pocket and have bunches of fun being out in nature in the winter and participating together in keeping our Earth awesome!
Birding
Cornell University Citizen Science Projects
Snow
Community Snow Observations (w/NASA)
SnowPilot Backcountry snow & avalanche tracking
Space
Weather
Mountain Rain or Snow Project (I'm doing this one :))
NOAA SciJinks Rain, Snow, Hail Project
More Citizen Science Projects
Adventure Scientists (Projects for everything from water to trees, microplastics to snowflies, rivers to coral reefs, & more!)
Globe Observer (Clouds, mosquitoes, & more)
Journey North (flowers, gardens, butterflies, birds)
SciStarter (Projects geared for children's participation)
National Geographic Citizen Science (Projects for children 3-12+)
Seeds to Sprout
Winter Solstice Extravaganza!
In this Wonder Wednesday 125 I give you a round up of 15 Winter Solstice projects from over the years to help you celebrate the longest night in the most cozy, creative, and nature connected ways - plus learn some science behind the solstice!
Take a Walk!
In this Wonder Wednesday 88 project, bundle up, we're going on a mindful Winter Solstice walk, incorporating as you like photography, bird feeding, and more! + Some cultural history around the winter solstice and ending with a cosy treat!
Nature Celebrations
Let solstice start off your wheel of the year! In this Wonder Wednesday 135 project, we'll celebrate each date on nature's calendar with a special journal project! + There is a printable for you to use too!