Article

09 July 2004

Citizen science news wanted

Here's a brief news item: Jim Scanlon is a writer, photographer and citizen scientist. Shown here is Scanlon's adhesive tape particle collector capturing Asian smoke at Point Reyes, California, in March 2004. Photograph by Jim Scanlon. Click image to enlarge.

Each week The Citizen Scientist brings you several news items about topics of special interest to amateur scientists.

Most citizen science activities receive very little publicity, so we are probably unaware of many ongoing projects.

This is where you can help. If you are aware of any citizen science activities or projects, we want to hear from you.

Projects might be individual in nature, such as observations of variable stars by a persistent amateur astronomer. Projects might be by groups, such as plant and animal censuses. Educational projects are also of interest.

We need specific information about the project, names of participants and, when possible, a few sharp digital photographs (JPEGs preferred). News contributors will receive credit for their contributions.

So here is your opportunity to help spread the word about the achievements of citizen scientists. Please send your contribution here. The subject line of your e-mail should include, "TCS News" or a similar phrase that will stand out from the hundreds of routine e-mails. Be sure to include your full name and contact information.

Forrest M. Mims III