Community Science

Start your journey with community science today!

Anyone can contribute to the collective knowledge of our environment through community science.  

More ways to engage with wildlife

Observe Continuing Education Careers

Community science, also called citizen science or crowd-sourced science, allows researchers to tackle questions they could never dream of answering alone. Join a network of people who are passionate about understanding and preserving the natural world by contributing to one of the many hands-on projects below. This list is an introduction to available opportunities but is not exhaustive.

Illinois Extension Pathways to Community Science

Master Naturalists

The University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist Program trains individuals on ecology, wildlife, habitat conservation, and other natural resources topics so these volunteers can then share information with their communities and assist with environmental conservation and restoration activities.

Master Gardener

Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who dedicate their time and skills to make their community a more beautiful place. Learn how you can get involved. 

Climate Stewards

The Climate Steward program trains environmental supporters how to communicate about climate change and engage in local solutions. Our vision is to build engaged communities and ecosystems that are resilient in a changing climate in Illinois and beyond.

Watershed Steward

This program trains and supports individuals to protect and preserve our water resources by increasing their understanding of potential causes of water resource degradation and providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to identify, prevent, or resolve water quality problems.

Illinois 4-H Youth Development

Illinois 4-H programs help youth learn about the environment through fun activities involving solar and wind energy; water quality and sport fishing; and how carbon sequestration can be related to healthy living actions. Hands-on 4-H programs spark interest in why natural resources are important.

Illinois Community Science Opportunities

Illinois Butterfly Monitoring Network

Participants monitor and collect data on butterfly populations in Illinois. The information contributes to research on butterfly distribution and abundance.  

Chicago Wilderness Green Vision Initiatives

Involves citizen scientists in monitoring and restoring natural habitats in the Chicago region. Participants contribute to preserving biodiversity and enhancing ecosystem health.  

Shedd Aquarium's Action Days

Shedd Aquarium in Chicago organizes community events focused on Great Lakes conservation. Participants can engage in activities like shoreline cleanups and water quality monitoring.

Field Museum Calling Frog Survey

Citizen scientists help monitor frog populations in northeast Illinois by listening for frog calls during the breeding season. This data aids in understanding amphibian health.  

Chicago Bird Collision Monitors

Volunteers monitor and rescue birds that have collided with buildings in downtown Chicago. This project aims to reduce bird injuries and fatalities in the urban environment.  

Illinois RiverWatch Network

Engages volunteers in monitoring water quality in rivers and streams across Illinois. Participants collect data on various parameters to assess and protect freshwater ecosystems. 

National Community Science Opportunities

eBird

A platform where individuals can report bird sightings, contributing to global bird research and conservation efforts.  

iNaturalist

A platform for documenting and sharing observations of plants, animals, and fungi. Users can contribute to scientific research and species identification.  

Project Noah

Allows citizen scientists to document and explore wildlife sightings, contributing to a global mission of biodiversity discovery and understanding.  

FrogWatch USA

A platform where citizens can monitor and report frog and toad populations, providing valuable data for amphibian conservation.  

GLOBE Observer, Mosquito Habitat Mapper

Allows citizens to identify and map mosquito breeding sites to aid in disease prevention efforts.  

Nature's Notebook

A platform where individuals observe and record phenology, the seasonal changes, of plants and animals, contributing to ecological research.  

EDDMaps

Report invasive species sightings to a national network of expert verifiers. Coordinated by the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health at University of Georgia.