EARLY DETECTION RAPID RESPONSE CITIZEN SCIENCE PROGRAM

Citizen Scientists can provide critical information about newly emerging plant populations, shifting distributions, abundance and phenology of invasive plants to land managers in need of the data. PNW IPC works in partnership with National Forests and Parks, Washington Dept. of Agriculture (WSDA), Department of Natural Resources (DNR), county noxious weed programs, and other local groups on a Citizen Science EDRR Invasive Plant Program. Our mission is to train citizens how to identify priority invasive plants, how to record basic data and how to report findings on-line through EDDMapSWest. PNW IPC verifies reports and sends data immediately to land mangers responsible for control and management. Volunteer reporting efforts provide vital data to managers and researchers regarding new infestation locations, abundance and growth patterns over time and offers a way for local citizens to take part in the conservation and protection of native ecosystems!