Citizen Science within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

As a science mission agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has a rich tradition of supporting citizen science as means to tackle grand challenges and everyday problems. Today that tradition is... [ view full abstract ]

As a science mission agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has a rich tradition of supporting citizen science as means to tackle grand challenges and everyday problems. Today that tradition is being carried on with citizen science projects fostered and supported across the Agency. There are over 65 active such projects, many of which began within the past few years.

A NOAA Citizen Science Community of Practice was launched in the fall of 2013. This Community of Practice fosters sharing of best practices for designing, implementing, and managing citizen science projects. This past year has focused on supporting evaluation of efforts undertaken by the Community. The Community is facilitated by NOAA's Office of Education to help make education and lifelong-learning connections. In the spirit of the citizen science field, it relies on grassroots participation from community members throughout the Agency.

In addition, NOAA partners with a number of institutions and networks to accomplish its citizen science goals. This presentation will overview NOAA’s portfolio of projects and efforts to foster stronger collaboration within that collection. Notable examples will eb highlighted. Further, there will be a discussion to solicit feedback on how the Agency might better partner and connect with the broader community.