The National Phenology Network (NPN) is the primary resource in the U.S. where scientists, informal and formal science educators, families, and novice-to-expert naturalists can combine their observational skills in a collaborative and timely research effort that will contribute to the health and sustainability of our natural resources and to the ecological literacy of everyone in the United States.

Susan Mazer
Professor, University of California, Santa Barbara

USGS Citizen Science programs ask YOU to be the scientist. We engage the public to collect data that are used by emergency responders, scientists, and resource managers. After earthquakes or shaking events, "Did You Feel It?" collects web-based citizen responses to help provide rapid intensity assessments for earthquake science and response. USGS is a founding sponsor of the USA National Phenology Network, whose Citizen Scientists monitor climate change impacts on the Nation's plants and animals. Since 1966, more than 8,000 skilled volunteer participants have contributed data used by the USGS's North American Breeding Bird Survey to monitor populations of over 420 bird species. This citizen-collected information provides quality data at more extensive scales than scientists could collect themselves, helping to identify conservation priorities and inform sound management practices.