USA National Phenology Network and Nature’s Notebook Citizen Science Program

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Observing phenology, or plant and animal life cycle events, through Nature’s Notebook citizen science program from the USA National Phenology Network offers place-based, hands-on learning opportunities, provides a collaborative platform for site-based educators, and promotes cross-subject engagement while addressing standards of learning.  Their formal and non-formal education resources can be used to help students of all ages plug into real-world scientific research questions addressed by many researchers, natural resource, land manager and educational groups. Phenology is an excellent lens for teaching about the natural world.

Arizona Master Naturalist Association (Statewide)

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The Arizona Master Naturalist Association (AZMN) is a statewide training and certification program designed to create a corps of volunteers educated to give back volunteer service to partnering organizations that utilize volunteers in outreach programming. AZMN provides education, outreach and interpretive services to a variety of stakeholders including education entities, state and city government agencies, as well as private citizen groups.  Certified Arizona Master Naturalists will also participate in the stewardship of natural and cultural resources by participating in activities designed to do so.  Our membership is regionally fluent in natural and cultural history of Arizona, skilled in natural resource management techniques and actively participate in citizen science initiatives. Arizona Master Naturalists will contribute to increased and evolving understanding of the region through participation in citizen science initiatives. For information about how to become a trained Master Naturalist OR to partner your organization with the statewide organization, email info@azmasternaturalist.org.

Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research (Tucson)

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The primary mission of the Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research is to remain in the forefront of world dendrochronology through the use of tree rings as natural chronometers and recorders of change in the environment with which human society is inescapably linked. The Laboratory makes significant contributions to understanding natural environmental variability in climatic, hydrologic, geomorphic, and ecological systems.

They are committed to promoting public awareness (and understanding) of science and making informal contributions to science education. As part of their Outreach program, they strive to inspire new connections and nurture existing connections among our community, which includes visitors to and residents of Tucson, and the K-12 educators and students communities.