What is citizen science?

Citizen science allows everyday people to help collect valuable information about the environment. By observing and recording pollinators, plants, and wildlife, community members can support real scientific research and conservation efforts.

Why does Citizen Science matter?

Citizen science allows everyday people to help collect valuable information about the environment. By observing and recording pollinators, plants, and wildlife, community members can support real scientific research and conservation efforts.

WHO CAN BE A CITIZEN SCIENTIST?

Citizen science is for people of all ages and backgrounds. You do not need to be an expert or have a science degree to participate. Whether you are a student, gardener, hiker, birdwatcher, photographer, or simply someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, anyone can contribute valuable observations. All you need is curiosity, a passion for nature, and a willingness to observe and learn about the world around you. Even small observations can help scientists better understand and protect wildlife, pollinators, and local ecosystems.

hOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE?

Participating in citizen science is simple and can be done almost anywhere. Spend time observing nature in your backyard, neighborhood, local parks, or natural areas. Watch for birds, pollinators, plants, or other wildlife, then record what you see through notes, photos, or citizen science apps. Your observations can help scientists track species, monitor environmental changes, and support conservation efforts.

OBSERVE

Spend time exploring nature and watching wildlife, plants, or pollinators in your backyard, parks, or local natural areas.

RECORD

Take notes or photos of what you see, including the species, location, weather, and date of your observation.

SUBMIT

Share your observations through citizen science apps and programs to help support scientific research and conservation efforts.

MAKE AN IMPACT

Your observations can help scientists better understand ecosystems, track species, and protect local wildlife and habitats.

FIND CITIZEN SCIENCE PROGRAMS

Explore citizen science programs and apps that allow you to record observations, contribute valuable data, and help scientists better understand and protect wildlife and ecosystems.

iNATURALISTS

Record and share observations of plants, animals, fungi, and insects while helping scientists track biodiversity around the world.

SC ADOPT-A-STREAM

Monitor the health of local streams and waterways by collecting water quality data and observing environmental conditions across South Carolina.

SCISTARTER

Discover citizen science projects focused on wildlife, pollinators, weather, water quality, and many other environmental topics.

BUMBLE BEE WATCH

Submit photos and observations of bumble bees to help researchers track populations and protect native bee species.

JOURNEY NORTH

Track seasonal migrations and changes in nature, including monarch butterflies, hummingbirds, and blooming plants.

MONARCH WATCH

Support monarch butterfly conservation by reporting sightings, tagging monarchs, and learning about their migration patterns.

Make an impact

Your observations help scientists understand and protect pollinators, wildlife, and the natural world around us.
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