Become a citizen scientist in Glacier this summer

The Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center at Glacier National Park will continue its Citizen Science Program this summer, offering free research and learning opportunities for the public.

The program trains people to identify, observe and record information on mountain goats, bighorn sheep, pikas, loons, and invasive plants in Glacier National Park. 

These species have been targeted because of their sensitivity to changes in habitat, human disturbances and, in the case of invasive plants, their threat to native biodiversity. 

Participants are asked to attend a one-day training session before collecting data for a project. Additional training sessions may be scheduled based on interest. 

Contact the Learning Center at 888-7986 to sign up for training or for more information.   

High Country Citizen Science — Observe mountain goats, bighorn sheep and pika behavior at selected sites to assist with population and distribution estimates. These three species are habitat- and temperature-sensitive and may be affected by climate change.

Training dates: June 13 or June 27

Common Loon Citizen Science — Gather information on the distribution and reproduction of common loons to understand more about population trends and nesting success.

Training date: June 19

Invasive Plant Citizen Science — Learn to identify five targeted invasive plants and use GPS units to mark their locations while hiking along trails in Glacier National Park. Interested participants in the invasive plant mapping program can be trained in one of two ways:

1. Complete online training session at http://www.nps.gov/glac/naturescience/ccrlc-citizen-science_weeds.htm.

2. Attend the annual Weed Blitz on  July 15. Participants will assist Glacier National Park by pulling targeted weeds.