“I think a database of water quality monitoring tools is something that anyone who samples recreational water quality dreams of: the idea of a one-stop-shop for such information would be incredibly helpful and save a lot of time for the people and volunteers that run water quality monitoring programs,” Colleen Henn said. It also includes ways to get the tools and incorporates evaluations and reviews of their applications.
The new database includes fields to help project participants and scientists find the right instruments based on criteria like intended use, cost, and access to data. This undertaking builds on prior research including a Citizen Science Maker Summit, a research project to develop a tools taxonomy, an analysis of the landscape of citizen science tools, and recent work developing loanable kits through libraries. To address this, SciStarter is creating a relational Tools Database: a searchable inventory that links tools to projects and vice versa. Lack of access to these tools can be a barrier to engaging in citizen science projects. Examples of tools used by citizen scientists.
