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Citizen Science
Citizen-science is a relatively new concept but one that is steadily gaining value as a tool for conservation. At its most basic, citizen-science is the effort of volunteers (regardless of age, location, or experience) in gathering scientific data. The value of volunteer-collected data has been recognized by various branches of science for many years. Natural resource agencies with limited budgets and personnel are now extending their conservation efforts by partnering with volunteers to conduct biota surveys of our environment.
The Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission (ANHC) brought citizen-science to a state-wide audience in 2004 with the Arkansas Tarantula Survey and 2005 and 2006 with the Arkansas Bumblebee Survey. This collaboration with citizen-scientists provides the ANHC with broad-range ecological data and gives the public a greater appreciation for their local natural resources. The ANHC will continue to partner with citizen-scientists across the state to establish baseline ecological measures and fill gaps in our knowledge. To learn more about participating in the ANHC's current survey go to
For information on past efforts, visit the links below.
