![]() NPS Photo You do not need to be a trained scientist to participate! If you are curious, check out the current catalogue of federal projects looking for your support. From bird watching in your back yard to photographing beach erosion to data entry, there is a spot for you. ![]() NPS photo Since 2012, the students visit the preserve each winter and literally get their feet (and sometimes knees) wet, assisting park rangers in collecting and identifying dragonfly nymphs. The samples are then sent to a USGS laboratory for analysis and inclusion in the study. Mercury concentrations were found to vary from one National Park Service unit to another, with eastern units generally containing higher mercury levels than western units. Last year the program was broadened to include protected places outside of national parks, for a total of 120 sites across the country- a successful gathering of data due to the commitment of over 5,000 citizen scientists participating over the last eleven years! Within the National Park Service this project is housed under the Air Resources Division. |
Last updated: June 9, 2022