citizen scientist opportunities will

    Volunteer in Great Smoky Mountains National Park as a Citizen Scientist on June 29 and July 2 and join Park researchers and educators in collecting scientific data in the national park.  These two field events will kick off a summer of Citizen Science opportunities in the Park which provides hands on learning experiences by engaging the public in real science activities.  
    SPECIAL HIGH SCHOOL VOLUNTEER DAY:  Mapping in a Maze of Grass, Monday, June 29th, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.  OPEN ONLY TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AND RECENT GRADUATES.  
    Join a Ranger in the fields of Cades Cove to search for an enemy of our native animals: the fire ant.  This project will include collecting data, mapping evidence, and treating fire ant mounds.  Participants will learn how to use GPS and topographic maps and have some fun along the way!  Be prepared to be outdoors by wearing long thorn-resistant pants (such as jeans), closed-toe shoes/boots, sunscreen, a hat and/or sunglasses.  Bring plenty of water, a bag lunch, and your camera.  Meet at 10:00 am at the Orientation Shelter (information booth) at the entrance to Cades Cove (the parking area just before the one-way road).  We will carpool to the fields that will be mapped.  Reservations are not necessary, but contact Ranger Emily Guss at 865-436-1292 for any questions.  
    SPECIAL PUBLIC VOLUNTEER DAY:  Filling in the Gaps on the Map:  Thursday, July 2nd, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The first of four “Citizen Science for the 75th” days is open to the public of any age (for those 12 years of age or younger, a parent is required to be present).  
    Participants will spend the day exploring the trails between the Twin Creeks Science and Education Center and Sugarlands Visitor Center and map the big trees along the way. The focus will be on learning how to identify common Smoky Mountain trees, reading a topographic map, using a GPS unit, and setting up a monitoring plot as scientists here in the park do. Come prepared to walk up to 2 miles on relatively flat but uneven forest trails.  Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, bug repellent, snacks, and a camera, and wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.  Also, attendees may want to bring a lunch to eat with the group at noon.   Reservations are required and limited to 20 people.  Contact Ranger Susan Simpson at 865-436-1200 ext. 762.