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  2. Participatory Science
  3. Explore Projects

Participatory Science Projects for Other Environmental Concerns

What types of concerns can participatory science address?

Participatory science can be used to help address a myriad of environmental concerns such as soil contamination, microplastic pollution, and other issues. Engaging community members in every step of the scientific process can lead to better environmental data, improved understanding of environmental issues, and productive community engagement in problem solving.

On this page:

  • Highlighted Projects 
  • Project Resources 

Check out a variety of projects below:

More Resources

  • EPA StoryMap on Participatory Science

Local Environmental Observer Network

The graphic identifier for the LEO Network

LEO is a network of local experts who collect observations about unusual environmental events. They apply local and traditional knowledge, western science, and modern technology to record and share observations and to raise awareness about changing environmental conditions. 

Learn more about LEO.

Postville Lead and Radon Project

Toxic metals test stock photo

This project distributed free lead and radon test kits and multi-lingual outreach materials to an underserved community in Postville, Iowa. The results helped develop a community implementation strategy.

Learn more about Postville's Lead and Radon Project.

Palouse Prairie Region Restoration Project

prairie at sunset

The Palouse Prairie Region Restoration Project actively involves the regional community in the restoration of a native ecosystem, raising public awareness while promoting environmental literacy and conservation stewardship.*

Learn more about the Palouse Prairie Region Restoration Project.

Mystic River Herring Project

Children watching herring swim in a tank

In Arlington, Massachusetts, the Mystic River Herring Monitoring program involves community scientists in herring counting and assessing water quality of the Mystic River Watershed (photo by David Mussina). 

Learn more about the Mystic River's Herring Project.

Imperial Valley Air Network

Hot spot air monitoring stock image

In Imperial Valley, California, a network of 40 air monitors were set up as a response to the community’s concerns about local air quality. The IVAN Air Network is helping researchers analyze air quality trends and determine where additional measures would help reduce air pollution.

Learn more about IVAN.

Gardenroots: A Participatory Science Garden Project

The graphic identifier for the Gardenroots project.

Gardenroots aims to evaluate environmental quality and the potential exposure to contaminants near active or legacy resource extraction and hazardous waste sites and influence environmental decision-making. 

Learn more about the Gardenroots Project.

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Resources for Participatory Science Projects

SciStarter

  • Find a participatory science project near you! Visit SciStarter.org, a globally acclaimed, online participatory/citizen science hub where more than 3,000 projects, searchable by location, topic, age level, etc.

EnviroAtlas

  • Human health and well-being are closely tied to the environment. EnviroAtlas provides geospatial data, easy-to-use tools, and other resources related to ecosystem services, their chemical and non-chemical stressors, and human health. 


Participatory Science

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    • Participatory Science Across the US
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Contact Us about Participatory Science
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on February 12, 2025
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