When you picture a scientist, what comes to mind? Is it a person in a lab coat who has spent decades working on an obscure theory using unfamiliar concepts? Or do you think of your neighbor, your rideshare driver, your child, or even yourself?
You may be surprised to learn that people with no formal science background can gather and record useful data for researchers through community science. This approach is an inclusive way for people from all backgrounds to contribute to scientific knowledge and to become environmental stewards in their own locality.
Scientific research can inform policy decisions affecting conservation and access to precious natural resources. Community science equips people to advocate for policies that benefit not only the environment, but their own culture, livelihood, and health. It’s empowering and fosters a sense of social belonging and pride.
There are many community science projects in the Portland metro area that monitor anything from biodiversity to the effects of climate change and center around finding solutions to our most pressing environmental issues.
One particular environmental focus in our region is the plight of wild salmon.
Through habitat destruction and overfishing, salmon have become threatened or endangered in many areas throughout the Pacific Northwest. These important fish are not only a keystone species that are integral to healthy aquatic ecosystems, but have also been essential food and cultural focal points for local indigenous nations, who have continually remained responsible salmon stewards for countless generations. Following Euro-American settlement along local aquatic habitats, salmon numbers rapidly dwindled due to habitat loss resulting from land development.
So how can you become part of the solution?
Community science offers ways to support salmon habitat restoration and conservation efforts. The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife manages the Salmon Trout Enhancement Program, which calls upon community members to volunteer for habitat surveys, restoration projects and aquaculture (that is, rearing new generations of salmon).
Training is provided for these opportunities, and they can range from involved projects where you can utilize your existing skills and training, to simple and fun single-day events that engage the entire family.
The Portland-based nonprofit Johnson Creek Watershed Council hosts annual surveys of Coho and Chinook salmon. This project is open to anyone ages 16 and over with no prior experience required. Every fall, community members head out to Johnson Creek—an important tributary of the Willamette River—to look for salmon and their nests. This produces data crucial to salmon habitat monitoring and restoration efforts and is used not only to pinpoint current habitat trends, but to plan for future conservation. The annual survey is popular, so if it fills up, keep in mind that the organization offers multiple opportunities for public involvement in habitat restoration for salmon and other local species.
As a seasoned environmental educator of over 15 years, I know how daunting tackling environmental issues can seem. We often feel powerless, as if we are far removed from the scientific research that aids our most vulnerable species and protects our own vital natural resources.
However, community science offers unique opportunities for all of us to contribute to scientific knowledge that spurs positive change. It affords us the power to truly make a difference and to create a sense of community pride in the process. Each of us is born with curiosity and the ability to observe the natural world.
All humans are inherent scientists.
If we use our natural talents and curiosity to contribute to scientific datasets, we have the potential to make a lasting positive impact on our environment.
Local News
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