Strengthening citizen science as a tool against invasive species in the New York Finger Lakes Region

Session: Education, Outreach, and Citizen Science in Our Great Lakes: Engaging the Community (2)

Robert Moakley, Rochester Institute of Technology, [email protected]
Zack Prokocki-Loomis, Rochester Institute of Technology, [email protected]
Sydney VanWinkle, Rochester Institute of Technology, [email protected]
Tony Zhang, Rochester Institute of Technology, [email protected]
Christy Tyler, Rochester Institute of Technology, [email protected]

Abstract

Invasive species pose a substantial risk to the natural environment and may reduce the human benefits associated with healthy ecosystems. In particular, the Finger Lakes Region of New York State is significantly affected by a number of aquatic and terrestrial invasive species that pose environmental and economic challenges as they degrade the economic, aesthetic and intrinsic value of the lakes. An effective method in managing invasive species is Early Detection Rapid Removal, which requires strong citizen science initiatives. In the Finger Lakes region, local residents care deeply about the lakes, but direct involvement and reporting of invasive species is low. The overarching goal of our work is to improve citizen scientist involvement in invasive species management. To determine best practices for engaging local citizens in scientific monitoring, we collaborated with the Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) and iMapInvasives and administered surveys and interviews to current participants in citizen science initiatives. Community outreach, targeted recruitment, and improvement of tools are all components in effective strategies behind initiatives. These results will allow for an intensive and specific engagement plan for the region, enabling organizations to adopt strong programs to more efficiently combat invasive species.