WSU co-organizes first annual Pacific Northwest Citizen and Community Science Summit

PNW Citizen Science LogoLearn how anyone can make an impact on discovery at the first Pacific Northwest Citizen and Community Science Summit, to be held virtually, Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 26 and 27. Registration closes Oct. 22.

Co-organized by scientists at Washington State University, the summit will feature more than 30 presentations from communities and individuals leading citizen or community science projects in the Pacific Northwest. Partner organizations include the Washington Invasive Species Council and Western Invasives Network.

Jennifer Marquis, Joey Hulbert
Jennifer Marquis; Joey Hulbert

Presenters include Jennifer Marquis, program leader for WSU Extension Master Gardeners, and Joseph Hulbert, postdoctoral fellow in WSU’s Department of Plant Pathology, and co-founder of Forest Health Watch.

Marquis’ talk, “Retaining Citizen Science Volunteer,” defines skills and character traits needed in citizen science volunteers, and explores strategies to keep them engaged throughout the entire project.

Hulbert’s presentation, “So you want to start a citizen science project?”, highlights varied approaches and shares tips for launching projects.

Other anticipated sessions include strategies to connect researchers, volunteers, and community organizations; identifying opportunities for research; case studies of successful collaborations; evaluating the impacts and benefits of citizen science; and more.

The summit is free to attend. Find details and registration at the event website, https://pnwcitsci.org/