BIOL X413.1 - Citizen Science: Phenological Monitoring in Joshua Tree National Park

Course Description

Learn how to become "citizen scientists" and collect data on the effects of climate change on plant phenology -- or life cycle phases -- in Joshua Tree National Park or in your own backyards, as part of the California Phenology Project. The Project is gathering data on the effects of global warming on when plants produce:

• leaves
• flowers
• fruits

The data gathered will help us learn whether plants are engaging in these activities earlier as temperatures rise. You will spend Saturday night in the classroom learning about the Project, including basic plant biology and the plants that are being monitored in Joshua Tree National Park. On Sunday, the group will monitor plants on Ryan Mountain. The hike up Ryan is 1.5 miles (3.0 miles round-trip) with an elevation gain of about 1000 feet, and will end with fantastic views of the Park from the summit. You then return to the classroom to enter your data.