Community Science

Community Science

Volunteers caring for our lands and waters

Understanding environmental changes over time is crucial for addressing climate change, safeguarding water quality, and supporting wildlife populations. Reliable data helps us determine when our efforts are successful and when adjustments are needed.

Community science, also known as “citizen science” or “participatory science,” is a collaborative approach that involves community members working together with scientists, educators, and others to address local and global priorities. It empowers volunteers of all backgrounds to contribute meaningful data, answer questions about the environment or social issues, and support scientific research and innovation.

Engaging community members can make it possible to collect larger and more geographically diverse datasets in less time, ultimately informing important conservation efforts and policy decisions. Additionally, community science provides participants with valuable learning opportunities and a deeper understanding of topics they care about.

By offering specialized training and tools, Coastal Rivers ensures that the data we collect are accurate and dependable to support ongoing conservation efforts.

For more information

Follow the links below to learn more about any of our community science initiatives or contact Sarah Gladu, Community Science Director: 207-563-1393 x340.

Swim Beach and Cyanobacteria Monitoring

Trained volunteers monitor three swim beaches once a week, June through late August. Water samples are analyzed in a lab for bacterial contamination.

Maine Phytoplankton Monitoring Program

Phytoplankton monitoring volunteers are part of a coast-wide, first-alert system to help ensure shellfish meat is safe to eat.

Estuary Monitoring

Coastal Rivers’ estuary monitoring initiative collects data that help us understand changing estuary water quality and habitat conditions.

Fresh Water Monitoring

Coastal Rivers volunteers collect data in lakes and ponds throughout the Pemaquid Peninsula to track changes in water quality over time.

Invasive Plant Patrol and Courtesy Boat Inspections

Invasive aquatic plants pose a very serious threat to habitat and water quality in Maine lakes and ponds. The efforts of volunteers and interns help keep them at bay.

Horseshoe Crab Monitoring

Ongoing since 2009, the goal of Coastal Rivers' horseshoe crab count is to track population changes over time. This in turn provides insight into the overall health of the estuary.

Looking out for Loons

Loons are excellent indicators of environmental health in lakes and ponds. Volunteers help build nest rafts and participate in the Annual Loon Count with Maine Audubon.