Citizen Science

Observation is one of the most fundamental skills in scientific research, and while technology has provided the means to collect and monitor increasing amounts of information from all over the planet, there are still many cases in which the human eye is the best tool for the job. Citizen science projects call on the observations and simple analysis of the public to help professional scientists gather and interpret real-time information about our changing world. Opportunities range from recording wildlife in your backyard to crosschecking photos of penguin populations in Antarctica to performing easy water quality tests in your town and more.

No matter your age or level of scientific experience, citizen science offers a chance for everyone to get involved and contribute to the growing wealth of information we know about our planet.

Featured
Teacher and students doing an environmental lesson

Citizen Science and NEEF

Our work engages the public in citizen science by working with trusted professionals and collaborating with federal partners and educators.
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Woman Taking Photo of a  Rose

Citizens Observing a Changing Climate

Researchers can collect large scale information by engaging non-professional volunteers in scientific investigations, also known as citizen science.
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Girl reading at Debris Day 2015

Spring into Citizen Science

With the weather beginning to warm, it's a perfect time to get outside and try these citizen science activities!
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Fun under the stars

Globe at Night

Are you a star gazer? The Globe at Night program is an international citizen science campaign focused on light pollution, measured by star gazing.
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Infographics
Surrounded by Science Infographic

Surrounded by Science

From the front door to the solar system, science can be found everywhere. Explore some of the many ways science connects the world around us.
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Citizen Science is Blooming

Citizen Science is Blooming

Check out this infographic to learn about the value of citizen science and opportunities to learn about the planet and its dynamic systems.
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Project Spotlight
Outdoor classroom, Greening STEM

Greening STEM Hub

Every classroom has a STEM lab right outside their doors. Our Greening STEM Hub has the resources educators need to engage students with nature.
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Young man picking up trash

#H2OBigPicture Photo Contest

NEEF and EPA want you to look at the #H2OBigPicture! Check out the winners from our photo contest.
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Get Involved

Project Noah

A tool that allows anyone to explore and document wildlife and a platform to harness the power of citizen scientists everywhere.
Share Your Experience

Other Citizen Science Resources

Find more ongoing citizen science projects with the help of these resources and join one today!

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