One of the most profound ways in which UC touches people's lives is through the work of Cooperative Extension.– Janet Napolitano, President, University of California
UC Cooperative Extension launches its first crowd-sourced science project on May 8 to commemorate the organization's 100thanniversary! On May 8, 1914, the president signed an act of Congress to channel scientific advances from university research to everyday people working and living in the United States. On May 8, 2014, California residents will collaborate on a dataset that further connects public higher education with community.
“UC Cooperative Extension is all about science and service,” said Barbara Allen-Diaz, UC vice president for the Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, which administers Cooperative Extension in California. “To celebrate the anniversary of Cooperative Extension, we are asking Californians to help us collect scientific data so that all of us will better understand our natural, agricultural and urban communities.”
How to participate
Everyone in California is invited to take part. To participate, go to http://beascientist.ucanr.edu and record your observations on three questions:
- How many pollinators do you see?
- How do you conserve water?
- Where is food grown in your community?
Many UC Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Programs are holding special events on May 8 where the public may join in the celebration of science and service. Participants can easily access and record observations using a mobile device with Internet connection.
Spread the word, #BeaScientist
Help spread the word. Share images, events and encourage friends and family to participate on May 8th using social media. Include the hashtag #BeaScientist in your posts!