Citizen Scientist Certification Program
The conservation of natural resources is the fundamental problem. Unless we solve that problem it will avail us little to solve all others. -Theodore Roosevelt
Quick Links
- Bloomington Parks and Recreation's Outdoor Activities and Classes
- Adopt-a-Trail - Submit an Adopt-a-Trail application
- Storm Drain Marking Program
- Events
Combined Adopt-a-Trail and Citizen Scientist Certification Program events are held in the spring, summer and fall. They are announced via e-newsletter and by e-mail. - Milestones
April 2011 - Dr. Catherine Reck, Chemistry G201 class work on the McDoel Switchyard
April 2010 - Sarah Cote, Ivy Tech water quality monitoring - Forms
Citizen Scientist candidate's program and volunteer tracking form (PDF 38.90 KB)
Citizen Scientist candidate volunteer waiver form (PDF 41.55 KB) - Brochures
Citizen Scientist promotional brochure (PDF 423.09 KB)
Citizen Scientist promotional brochure-college student specific (PDF 399.64 KB)
Storm drain marking by a local Boy Scout TroopThe City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department is proud to offer a unique opportunity for community members ages 14 years and older: Citizen Scientist Certification.
To receive this certificate, participants must attend at least two environmental education programs or scientific monitoring workshops indicating a Citizen Scientist opportunity. Candidates must also volunteer at least 10 hours monitoring or maintaining the City's natural areas. The two components need to be completed within a one-year time frame.
Objectives for the Citizen Scientist Certification Program are to help ensure public education and to promote land stewardship, physical fitness, and community.
Water quality testing at Griffy LakeAll that is required to become a Citizen Scientist (PDF 13.03 KB) is a genuine concern for the well-being of our natural resources! Volunteers are required to attend a one-hour Citizen Scientist orientation.
Successive levels of Citizen Scientist certification are available, starting with Bronze, progressing to Silver, and culminating in Gold.
This is a great opportunity for young people and adults that would liek to give back to the Bloomington community and environment, and receive something in return: certification. We welcome all, from indiviuals to groups, including classrooms, scouts, churches, service organizations, the Greek community, and more. The program is flexible.
Specific volunteer programs that count toward Citizen Scientist Certification include
Sassafras Audubon Society Birding Workshop at IUWe are available to help you develop a plan and get you started taking care of the local enviornment, whether it be monitoring a particular species, helping maintain native plant populations, teaching school-age children about karst, creeks, wetlands, forests, or soils, and so much more! Of course, we're open to suggestions as well. Would you like us to offer a particular program or workshop? Let us know!