Project Bud Burst - Be a Citizen Scientist!

Photo of flowering dogwood by Henry Domke

At this time of year, one sure-fire way to get yourself (and others) outside is to look for signs of spring. And like the Great Backyard Bird Count, Project BudBurst empowers us to become "citizen scientists," observing the phenology, or recurring first phases, of plants.

For a good explanation of phenology, see Shawn Moriarty's blog post, "How do you know it is spring?" A phenophase is the first phase of a plant's cycle (first leaf, leaves unfolding, first flower, etc.).

By reporting when we see what, we contribute valuable environmental and climate change information. So go ahead, get out there, and get your kids and students and parents out there, too! It's a great way to learn about the environment, connect to nature, and contribute to science, all at the same time.

Thanks to the Grass Stain Guru for her post about Project BudBurst; that's how I found out about it, so thanks, Bethe!