Citizen scientists’ motivation to participate in environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys: A case study on monitoring mammals in the UK

Broadhurst, Holly; Smith, Elin E.; Jackman, Jake M.; Singleton, Natalie; Tansley, Darren; Raynor, Robert; Sales, Naiara Guimaraes; Ochu, Erinma; McDevitt, Allan D.

Abstract

1. Citizen scientists have become integral participants in nature conservation projects, and the demand for effective conservation efforts has sparked increasing interest in utilizing environmental DNA (eDNA) for species monitoring, drawing citizen scientists into the sample collection process. However, there is still a gap in understanding the motivations behind volunteer engagement in eDNA projects. This includes the need to validate the data retrieved from collected samples and recognise the value of volunteer involvement to ensure their satisfaction and active engagement.

2. To address this gap, we trained conservation volunteers to collect eDNA samples from two rivers and a beaver enclosure for detecting terrestrial and semi-aquatic mammals. Two questionnaires were distributed before and after sampling to gather insights about volunteer science capital, motivation to participate and their experiences during eDNA sampling.

3. Citizen scientists were highly motivated to participate, developed innovative approaches to collect eDNA samples and showed a strong understanding of eDNA surveying techniques. Overall, citizen scientists expressed high science capital, which facilitated their enjoyment in contributing to meaningful scientific knowledge, helping their local wildlife, and expressing a desire for continuous learning. Additionally, concerns were made about plastic usage in eDNA studies, highlighting the need to address these environmental considerations. These findings highlight the broader impact of citizen science, extending beyond scientific outcomes alone.

4. A greater number of mammal species overall and between the sampling sites were detected by citizen scientists compared to the eDNA researchers. Their valuable contributions and local knowledge of the sampling sites have enhanced the scientific endeavour and expanded our understanding of local biodiversity. 5. This study provides insights into the feasibility and benefits of involving citizen scientists in eDNA surveys for both advancing conservation efforts and acknowledging the values of volunteers. We provide a robust comparison of results and highlight the benefits of volunteer participation, including increased knowledge exchange and enjoyment of biodiversity monitoring and conservation. The eDNA results were shared with the volunteers, leading to meaningful discussions about the species detected and their implications for conservation efforts. This collaborative approach encouraged knowledge exchange and further engagement between researchers and citizen scientists.

Citation

Broadhurst, H., Smith, E. E., Jackman, J. M., Singleton, N., Tansley, D., Raynor, R., …McDevitt, A. D. Citizen scientists’ motivation to participate in environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys: A case study on monitoring mammals in the UK

• Working Paper Type: Working Paper
• Deposit Date: Nov 7, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 7, 2024
• Related Public URLs: https://doi.org/10.31235/osf.io/fa83k