Career Citizen Scientists

This American Crow stands guard over
Hastie Lake Beach (Carolyn's site)

While visiting Jill's site (Fort Casey),
I was particularly drawn to the
gorgeous colors of beach stones

If you didn't know any better, you might think that Whidbey COASST volunteers Carolyn (Hastie Lake) and Jill (Fort Casey) are making a career out of citizen science work! Although these inspirational ladies are retired, both are tremendously involved in a number of citizen science projects on the island. An innate curiosity about science and the natural world and the desire to contribute to research that leads to tangible outcomes drives Jill and Carolyn to go above and beyond the minimal COASST survey requirements (sometimes canvassing their beaches at least TWICE a month during the year). Jill says she just 'can't say no' to citizen science projects. On behalf of all of us who care deeply for beautiful places like Whidbey - my hat goes off to you Carolyn and Jill!