Ever dream of becoming a scientist?
This summer, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park once again welcomes members of the community to become researchers in its Citizen Science Turtle Nest Excavation Program.
Now in its seventh year, Citizen Science is participatory scientific research that involves the public, professional scientists and the collection of meaningful data and education.
According to the team at MacArthur Beach State Park, Citizen Science connects people to hands-on, memorable experiences in nature, engages people interested in making a productive contribution, increases understanding of scientific process, expands the capacity of scientists to address many research questions and data needs and strengthens attitudes towards the natural environment.
Citizen scientists, led by MacArthur Beach State Park staff, will excavate loggerhead sea turtle nests five days after the first signs of turtles hatching and leaving the nest. They will record and share their findings with various state agencies. Following the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) strict regulations and protocols on egg excavation, the citizen scientists will hand dig into the nests until they reach the clutch. Once they reach the clutch they will sort the eggs into various groups determining nest productivity and hatchling success.
“This is an exciting time here at the park. We will be marking every 20th nest for excavation,” said park specialist Art Carton. “With over 1,500 loggerhead sea turtle nests last year, we are hoping for another busy season but need the help of additional citizen scientists to make this program a success.” MacArthur Beach State Park is currently looking for more members of their team. There will be a Citizen Scientist training from 9 to 11 a.m. June 8 and 29 at the park. For more information, contact Ranger Art at turtles@macarthurbeach.org or 561-776-7449, Ext. 109.
Citizen Science projects are taking place all over the United States and the majority of them feed data into national clearing houses on topics covering a huge range of research including mammals, birds, invertebrates, plants, invasive species, water quality, air quality, weather, and astronomy.