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Sharing data is one of the most important parts of doing science. When scientists (including citizen scientists!) share their data, it lets others check the results, compare findings, spot trends, and build on what’s already been learned. And when data are shared with decision-makers, educators, and the public, they can lead to real change. Science works best when we all have access to the information.
That’s why we’re evolving our LagoonWatch citizen science program.
LagoonWatch launched in 1991 as the first large-scale citizen science water monitoring effort in the Indian River Lagoon. Since then, hundreds of volunteers have collected thousands of data points across the Lagoon. But as technology and scientific standards have advanced, our methods haven’t always kept pace—largely due to the costs of new tools and the time needed to retrain. This means most of our community-collected data can’t be entered into scientific databases used for research and decision-making, like the Watershed Information Network. And data that aren’t shared, aren't a part of the scientific process.
By modernizing LagoonWatch, we’re ensuring our data align with current standards and can be integrated into larger data networks. That means our volunteers’ efforts will directly support research, policy-making, and environmental action within our community and beyond.
This month’s newsletter is dedicated to the LagoonWatch program: where it’s been and where it’s going. I encourage you to keep scrolling to learn more because you can help write this next chapter. Whether by volunteering your time or making a donation to support updated tools and training, your involvement makes a direct impact. With your help, LagoonWatch can continue to grow as a model of community-powered science that matters.
Sincerely,
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