Citizen science has undergone a rebranding as it has expanded in popularity; it is now often referred to as “community science” to be more inclusive. However you put it, community science is more than just a feel-good way of getting the general public involved in science. There are critical uncertainties in Chesapeake Bay restoration that can be addressed by involving volunteers. In addition, community science can give back to those lending a hand and their communities. By striving for a two-way exchange and involving diverse community members around the Bay, we can theoretically make a big difference in the restoration effort.

Moderators:

• Denice Wardrop, Executive Director, CRC
• Patrick Neale, Principal Investigator & Senior Scientist, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Speakers:

• Alison Cawood, Citizen Science Coordinator, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
• Julie Vastine, Director, Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), Dickinson College