Water Quality Monitoring Depends on Volunteers
Across the United States, more than 1,000 volunteer water quality monitoring programs rely on dedicated community members to collect valuable data that contributes to environmental conservation. These volunteers do more than just collect data—they provide local knowledge, build community awareness, and foster a deep connection between people and the environments they protect. Understanding what motivates individuals to volunteer, how they experience these programs, and how participation benefits both volunteers and their communities is crucial to the ongoing success of citizen science.
Aim of this Study
This study aims to understand the motivations and experiences of volunteers who participate in water quality monitoring programs, and explores how to integrate new technologies into the volunteer experience. Results from the study will help monitoring programs adapt to evolving volunteer needs and preferences. Results will also provide insights regarding the effects of technological change on the satisfaction and long-term involvement of volunteers in citizen science programs. Ultimately, this research will provide insights to ensure water quality monitoring programs continue to effectively support environmental conservation while meeting the needs of both volunteers and the ecosystems they help protect.
The research will be conducted from 2024 to 2027 and will encompass multiple stages:
- Stage 1: Fall 2024. The first stage involves interviewing and surveying participants in the BBC Baywatchers water quality monitoring program. This initial phase will gather data on volunteer motivations, experiences, and perceived benefits of participation.
Watch here for updates as the study progresses.
photo by Rachel Jakuba