Keeping Tabs – Observations and Citizen Scientists

Looking up the stipe of a giant kelp plant (Macrocystis pyrifera) in the Channel Islands National Park, California

February 2nd, 2017
San Diego, Ca

After nearly two weeks of the US government’s new administration’s deplorable policy towards scientists and the research that the tax payers help fund, people are still speaking out. This still isn’t a political forum, but I did want to highlight some of the ridiculous steps colleagues at government agencies are having to go through to get their results where they should be, in the hands of the general public.  
 
In other news, there has been a recent rise in projects that utilize citizen scientists to help collect and process data. These projects can range from field collections (Reef Check) to crowd-sourcing projects that can be done from one’s own desk. If you’re interested in getting involved, even for just a few minutes a day, check out Floating Forests! They’re doing some really cool work; it’s super fun and easy to get involved. Thanks to Kyle Neuman for sending this project my way.

No matter where in the world you are, or your background, I encourage you to get involved in projects that ignite your interests and passions. That's what science is all about!
 
That’s all for now. Stay tuned for more phycological updates as the field season starts to ramp up!
 
Cheers,
 
-Baron von Urchin. 

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