Increasing capacity for science: Use of collaborative networks for a whole that is larger than the sum of its parts

Many citizen science efforts today are increasing capacity to do science through crowd-sourcing, social media, and technology innovations. We propose that citizen science programs can also increase capacity through investments... [ view full abstract ]

Many citizen science efforts today are increasing capacity to do science through crowd-sourcing, social media, and technology innovations. We propose that citizen science programs can also increase capacity through investments in collaboration among organizations, volunteers, and program staff. Research and experience suggest that effective citizen science programs require staff time, strong communication with volunteers, and adequate funding. While collaboration can be time-intensive, we suggest that it can be a critical tool for increasing the capacity of organizations and researchers with limited resources. We describe two related collaborative networks being employed to expand research capacity, increase pools of trained volunteers, and improve science and stewardship outcomes among a diverse group of partner organizations in New Hampshire and beyond. The Coastal Research Volunteer (CRV) program is a regional network of volunteers based at the University of New Hampshire and NH Sea Grant. CRV provides an interface where volunteers are trained to work with researchers on a variety of funded coastal research projects that vary by season and year. By relying on one citizen science coordinator to support many projects, this “time-share” citizen science model allows local scientists to stretch limited time and financial resources to address local and regional environmental issues while creating a dynamic community of citizen volunteers. The Stewardship Network: New England (The Network) is a broader-scale effort, of which CRV is a collaborating partner. The Network, based at the University of New Hampshire, mobilizes volunteers to care for and study ecosystems, lands and waters in and around New Hampshire. Collaborating with over 75 different partner organizations since its launch in 2013, the Network provides a collective volunteer management system for partners, including an online calendar, registration system, citizen science hub, weekly e-bulletins, and opportunities to share student interns across organizations.