Community scientists of all ages can enjoy opportunities to learn, explore, make friends, and contribute to a unique and worthwhile endeavor.
They:
COLLECT DATA - Volunteers can partner with researchers to assist in actual inventory work. Alternatively, community scientists can participate in species identification through organized bioblitzes or independently using the iNaturalist app. Using a cell phone, photos of the animal or plant and its geolocation are captured. Data is then input into the iNaturalist database to support taxonomic inventory and analyze emerging wildlife trends.
ASSIST IN INTERPRETATION - Community scientists can assist at tabling events or share expertise as a presenter. The volunteer can be a voice advocating for the ToD to entire classrooms as an outdoor land activity assistant for the Neches River Adventure Ivorybill boat field trips.
EXPAND KNOWLEDGE - Individuals can attend the BTA’s quarterly Science Cafes to learn more about research and the issues impacting the Big Thicket. Science conferences and seminars may be an option, but they are less frequent. Community scientists experience personal growth through reading about the natural world and efforts to preserve it.
iNaturalist
iNaturalist is an international database that allows every day people to contribute to knowledge of biodiversity in the natural world through their recorded observations and facilitates learning through networking. This app can be used for group collections as research can be vetted and is used by actual research groups.
iNaturalist is available on their website (www.iNaturalist.org) and as an app. The app is used more for data collection and the website is more for the social network.
Join the Big Thicket project group on iNaturalist at https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/nps-big-thicket-national-preserve?tab=observations
Science Cafes
Science Cafes connect the public with our researchers and other professionals that work with natural areas like the Big Thicket. They are presented in casual settings, free, and open to everyone. They provide opportunities to share the findings of ToD researchers and hear from environmental specialists. Science Cafes have grown in popularity internationally.
Volunteer Opportunities
Neches River Adventures
The BTA’s Neches River Adventures operates a 45-foot covered pontoon boat, the Ivory Bill, to provide a unique "floating classroom." The program is provided free to student groups, and volunteers are much needed. Community Science Volunteers helps promote the value of local history, culture, lands and waters while sharing the contributions of the ToD research program.
Champions for Nature
The annual event hosted at the YMBL South Texas State Fair organized by the Sabine-Neches Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalists is an excellent outreach opportunity. The BTA and ToD are appreciative of the invitation to participate.
Geared towards all ages, there are learning activities about all aspects of the Big Thicket and the efforts to protect it. Champions for Nature is a prime example of Partnering for Preservation at its best.
Guided Hikes
ToD researchers and partnering organizations offer guided hikes to assist in species identification.
