Abstract
The democratization of ocean observation has the potential to add millions of observations every day. Though not a solution for all ocean monitoring needs, citizen scientists offer compelling examples showcasing their ability to augment and enhance traditional research and monitoring. Information they are providing is increasing the spatial and temporal frequency and duration of sampling; reducing time and labor costs for academic and government monitoring programs; providing hands-on STEM learning related to real-world issues; and increasing public awareness and support for the scientific process. Examples provided here demonstrate the wide range of people who are already dramatically reducing gaps in our global observing network while at the same time providing unique opportunities to meaningfully engage in ocean observing and the research and conservation it supports. While there are still challenges to overcome before widespread inclusion in projects requiring scientific rigor, the growing organization of international citizen science associations is helping to reduce barriers. The case studies described support the idea that citizen scientists should be part of an effective global strategy for a sustained, multidisciplinary and integrated observing system.
Highlights
Logistical considerations and the high costs of deploying traditional in situ ocean observing systems limit their density and ability to accurately monitor fine-scale environmental conditions
Calibration and Standardization of Equipment Following each cruise, equipment is sanitized by the volunteers before being sent back with samples to Indigo V Expeditions (IVE) headquarters
The additional decontamination step upon return of the equipment is more thorough than the sanitation performed by citizen scientists and minimizes the risk of cross contamination of invasive species between subsequent uses
Summary
Logistical considerations and the high costs of deploying traditional in situ ocean observing systems limit their density and ability to accurately monitor fine-scale environmental conditions. Though not a solution for all ocean monitoring needs, citizen scientists can augment and enhance traditional research and monitoring, increase spatial and temporal frequency and duration of sampling, reduce time and labor costs, provide hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) learning related to realworld issues and increase public awareness and support for the scientific process. The following are examples from around the world of how communities are being meaningfully engaged in ocean observing and the research and conservation these efforts support. The paper concludes with identification of challenges and potential solutions for citizen science efforts in the future
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