Citizens, Experts, Politics, and Policy: Exploring Goals and Motivations of Volunteer Water Quality Monitors

• In Event: 132 - Section on Science, Knowledge and Technology Paper Session. Topics in Science, Knowledge and Technology Studies

Abstract

In this paper I examine the motivations and goals of scientific experts and lay participants in volunteer water quality monitoring programs. I use data gathered from participant observations conducted with volunteer water quality monitoring programs in the Greater Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky region, and nineteen in-depth, semi-structured interviews with volunteer water quality monitors. Results indicate that both expert and lay respondents seek to partner with state and local agencies and to support state environmental protection efforts as a way to hold the state accountable should a problem be recognized through volunteer monitoring efforts. In conclusion, individuals who participate in citizen science take a pragmatic to approach to social change that involves working within state structures rather than challenging government agencies from the outside.

Author

• Jaime McCauley, Northern Kentucky University