Do you have a research project that could use some extra data?
Could keen people in the community follow your scientific protocols?
Do you want to increase awareness and broaden the impact of your science?
Then EarthTrek is for you!
We are seeking scientists to participate in EarthTrek by setting up REAL research projects in which the community can participate. The projects need to be ones in which people in the community can add real and valuable data using a GPS and simple, easy to obtain instruments. Examples of projects could be the identification as species and collecting lat/long data, recording water/air quality at sites, measuring sizes and locations of phenomena....the possibilities are endless! Projects can be local, regional or even global in extent.
As well as being a data collection tool, EarthTrek gives you the opportunity to promote your science to the widest possible audience. The boarder impacts for your science are immense. You will have the opportunity to easily provide feedback to the participants of the ways you have been able to use your science to make a real difference.
Sound interesting?
Can I participate?
If you are involved in a scientific program in any kind of institution or government department anywhere on the planet, then you can lead an EarthTrek project. The project has to meet some simple guidelines, such as suitable for community involvement, real (and not psudeoscience) etc
What will it cost?
Your time in setting up the project. We will also ask you to ensure that you provide participants feedback via a 'blast email' system once every few months. We also would like you to provide some basic career information that would encourage young people to look at your science as a possible career.
If you require us to develop a database and online input process, mapping interface or other tasks, we will seek financial assistance.
We are delighted to assist you in seeking funding if you use EarthTrek to further your research goals. All we ask is that you inlude EarthTrek in your funding budget at an appropriate level.
How long do projects need to run?
A project could run for a few weeks to a few years.
What type of data can I collect?
The basic data that participants will collect is date, time, latitude and longitude. The amount of additional data fields is project dependant, but it is anticipated that it will be between one and six additional fields (numeric, date, time, memo etc)
How is the data collected?
Participants log the data they collect for your project back onto the EarthTrek website. The data for the project is housed on the EarthTrek servers. You have access to the data via a secure website for the length of the project and a set 'embargo' time after the project is complete. The data is then released to 'open access' via the EarthTrek website.
How do I set my project up?
After an initial discussion with the EarthTrek team, you will be asked to complete a form that provides the basis for the development of your project web pages on EarthTrek.
Can I have my university/department logo?
Absolutely! While EarthTrek is administered by the Geological Society of America, your project on EarthTrek can look and feel like your institution.
Ready to make a start?
Use this form to put in an application for your project to become part of EarthTrek. Complete the details and email it to the contact on the form. You will be contacted so we can discuss your project and its suitablilty for EarthTrek.
Want more information?
Please contact :
Gary Lewis
EarthTrek Project Director
Geological Society of America
Boulder, Colorado, USA
glewis@geosociety.org
+1 (303) 357 1043