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Peer-reviewed article

The Wabash Sampling Blitz: A Study on the Effectiveness of Citizen Science

May 20, 2016 | Public Programs
The increasing number of citizen science projects around the world brings the need to evaluate the effectiveness of these projects and to show the applicability of the data they collect. This research describes the Wabash River Sampling Blitz, a volunteer water-quality monitoring program in Central Indiana developed by the Wabash River Enhancement Corporation (WREC). Results indicate that field test strips for nitrate+nitrite-N read by volunteers generally agree with lab-determined values. Orthophosphate results are less transferable owing to low observed concentrations, although the field test strip values from unfiltered samples consistently over-predicted the lab values. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) applied to volunteer-collected data groups sampling sites into meaningful management clusters that can help to identify water-quality priorities across the watershed as a proof of concept for watershed managers. Results of the HCA provide an opportunity for WREC to target future programs, education, and activities by analyzing the data collected by citizen scientists. Overall this study demonstrates how citizen science water quality data can be validated and applied in subsequent watershed management strategies.

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Rebecca Muenich
    Author
    Purdue University
  • Sara Peel
    Author
    Wabash River Enhancement Corporation
  • Laura Bowling
    Author
    Purdue University
  • Megan Haas
    Author
    Purdue University
  • Ronald Turco
    Author
    Purdue University
  • Jane Frankenberger
    Author
    Purdue University
  • Indrajeet Chaubey
    Author
    Purdue University
  • Citation

    ISSN : 2057-4991
    DOI : 10.5334/cstp.1
    Publication Name: Citizen Science: Theory and Practice
    Volume: 1
    Number: 1
    Page Number: 3
    Resource Type: Research Products
    Discipline: Ecology, forestry, and agriculture
    Audience: General Public | Scientists
    Environment Type: Public Programs | Citizen Science Programs

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