Learn about citizen science through OLLI at MSU this spring

The Science Math Resource Center is part of the spring speakers’ line-up for MSU’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) with a February talk called Citizen Science: It’s More Than Just Science!

As part of Montana’s land grant university, OLLI at MSU provides intellectually stimulating and enjoyable programs that foster lifelong learning and community engagement for individuals 50 and greater. There are no tests. No grades. No papers. OLLI at MSU offers opportunities for the pure joy of learning for those curious at heart.

OLLI MSU offers a diverse line-up of topics and over 50 programs each semester, such as multi-day courses, a speaker series, behind-the-scenes tours of local businesses and events. OLLI programs are created by members for members and instructed by local and visiting professionals, university professors, and staff. Our instructors enjoy teaching our engaged, curious, enthusiastic OLLI at MSU members.

For more information, visit montana.edu/olli/

OLLI MSU Spring 2024 semester offerings will be posted at the link above in late December.

Check out a Citizen Science Kit from the MSU Library

Take part in an international citizen science project, Globe at Night, that involves the public in measuring and collecting night sky brightness observations to help scientists understand the impact of light pollution. Light pollution is intrusive artificial (usually outdoor) light. Too much light pollution can wash out starlight in the night sky, interfere with astronomical research, disrupt ecosystems, have adverse health effects, and waste energy.

The kit was created by the MSU Science Math Resource Center in partnership with the MSU Library. Thanks to Montana NSF EPSCoR for sponsoring this program and bringing more STEM to the people of Montana! This MSU News article gives information about citizen science at the MSU library.

Want to check this kit out? Visit the MSU Library on campus – these kits are available to anyone in Montana, even if you are not affiliated with MSU. If you would like more information or are interested in bringing citizen science kits to your local Montana library, please contact smrc@montana.edu.

Apply to be a Spotty Rain Campaign Backyard Explorer and Community Fellow!

The Spotty Rain Campaign is offering two funding opportunities available for small and rural libraries. 

COMMUNITY FELLOWS: Citizen Science at the Library Challenge ($3000 available for up to 10 projects)

Community Fellows will learn about available resources and receive support to plan and transform the library backyard into a citizen science observation spot. This fellowship is available to individuals or groups in the library profession and offers a stipend of $3000 for projects that engage patrons in learning more about volunteer environmental monitoring. This program requires access to an outdoor space and permission to install informational signs and/or equipment (e.g. rain gauge).

SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Backyard Explorers ($300 mini-grants available for up to 30 libraries)

Meet librarian Heath Stanfield and learn more about the Backyard Explorers program created by the Southeast Oklahoma Library System (SEOLS). Patrons learn about nature inquiry using fun videos and logbook challenges designed to get families outside and making observations about leaves, weather, insects, maps, soil, and birds. This mini-grant is available to to individuals or groups in the library profession and offers a stipend of $300 for including Backyard Explorers as part of your summer reading program. This program does not require access to outdoor space.

To learn more & apply visit:

spottyrain.org/funding.html

Deadline for submissions is December 31, 2023

National Audubon Society's Winter Projects

The Christmas Bird Count occurs December 14 to January 5 every season. This project has been running since 1990, with over 20 countries in the Western Hemisphere participating every year! There are expected to be over 30 counts across Montana this year, be sure to check out Audubon's Christmas Bird Count webpage for more information on what's near you and how to participate.

The National Audubon Society will also be organizing Climate Watch from January 15 to February 15, 2024! You can researchers learn how birds are responding to the changing climate by using their specific protocol to observe birds in your area. You can join coordinated efforts in Helena or Billings, or participate on your own.

Community Snow Observations

Our patience for this winter's snow has paid off! Get outside and collect data for Community Snow Observations, a community-science campaign to measure snow. This project was funded by NASA’s Earth Science Program, as part of the NASA Citizen Science for Earth Systems project.

If you're a backcountry recreationist, or even just interested in getting involved from home, it's easy! You can use a traditional snow probe or make your own with items as simple as a ruler and measuring tape. Learn more how you can get involved in the project on their website.

We are in the process of organizing a suite of activities for Citizen Science month. If you have a project you'd like to see on campus, please reach out and let us know! Be sure to keep an eye out for our next newsletter in March for more details.