Community Science Projects
Become a citizen scientist with the organizations below!

• April to June​

• Hosted by NC Wildlife Resources Commission in partnership with NC Coastal Reserve.

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"The Terrapin Tally is structured as a community science activity that takes a snapshot of the diamondback terrapin population numbers in a given area by conducting kayak surveys at specified times and prescribed routes."

• year-long, 2021-2026

• Hosted by NC Wildlife Resources Commission in partnership with eBird (Cornell Lab of Ornithology).

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"The Atlas is a 5-year effort to map the location and breeding status of birds throughout North Carolina. We began the project in 2021 and currently plan on wrapping up data collection in 2026."

• Designed for kids and families

• App where users can choose quests

• You can choose the level of difficulty and time

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"Designed with kids in mind, the app introduces young adventurers to the wonders of the natural world. Children will learn to identify animals, plants, and natural objects while gaining a deeper appreciation for their environment. It's outdoor education wrapped in a fun, engaging game!"

• Organized in 2025 by Health Equity Bonner Fellow LJ at Cape Fear River Watch

• iNaturalist project for ghost forest observations

• Created an educational model of a ghost forest, plus a free pamphlet 

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"the threat of ghost forests—areas of dead and skeleton-like but still standing trees—continues to haunt the Cape Fear River. New findings in a report from UNCW examined tree cores and sediment samples from the Smith Creek tributary to show how the loss of these once-ancient cypress forests could continue to worsen with further dredging of the river. You can assist LJ and researchers in documenting and following the growth of these forests in Wilmington and the surrounding areas by uploading a photo to this community science project whenever you spot one!"

• Includes The Great Backyard Bird Count, Audubon Christmas Bird Count, and more!

• Yearlong opportunities

• hosted by National Audubon Society

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​"You don’t have to be a researcher to support bird conservation across our state. You just have to love birds!"

• kid-oriented

• yearlong opportunities

• hosted by NC Arboretum

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 "this innovative program combines science exploration with kid-friendly technology to foster a fun learning environment for children while encouraging them to explore the outdoors and participate in community science."

• started in 1998

• Akron Zoo manages FrogWatch USA

• Local chapter hosted by the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher

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"FrogWatch USA is a nationwide community science project that contributes to science regarding frog and toad populations by training volunteers to identify species by their unique breeding calls. No prerequisite knowledge of amphibians or scientific data collection is required. Volunteer trainings are hosted by community partner sites."