Founded in 2024 by Michael Dawson, a dedicated Saint Louis Zoo educator, FrogWatch Chapter Coordinator, and long-time citizen science leader, the Citizen Science Collaborative of Saint Louis (CSCSTL) is a dynamic network dedicated to fostering collaboration and growth within the region’s vibrant citizen science community.
Recognizing the power of collective effort, the CSCSTL brings together project leaders, researchers, educators, and enthusiasts involved in diverse citizen science initiatives across the Saint Louis metropolitan area.
The CSCSTL envisions a future where citizen science is a widely recognized and integral part of scientific research and community engagement in Saint Louis, contributing valuable data, fostering scientific literacy, and empowering residents to make a meaningful impact on their world.
Creating a Central Resource Hub: Developing and maintaining a comprehensive platform to connect projects, volunteers, and resources, making it easier to discover and participate in citizen science opportunities.
Promoting Citizen Science Engagement: Raising awareness about the value and impact of citizen science through outreach, education, and community events, encouraging greater public participation in scientific discovery.
Facilitating Collaboration and Support: Providing a supportive network for project leaders to share best practices, troubleshoot challenges, and collectively build capacity for successful citizen science endeavors.
Mentoring New Projects: Offering guidance and resources to individuals and organizations looking to initiate new citizen science projects in the Saint Louis region, helping to cultivate a thriving and diverse landscape of scientific inquiry.