CMU Launches Neithercut Woodland Biodiversity Project to engage students and community in citizen science

Central Michigan University (CMU) has launched the Neithercut Woodland Biodiversity Project, an initiative spearheaded by Dr. Tom Gehring, a faculty member in the Department of Biology at CMU and Director of Neithercut Woodland. This project aims to organize and expand knowledge about the diverse species found within Neithercut Woodland. Hosted on the iNaturalist app, the initiative invites students, researchers, and the general public to document and share their nature observations, fostering both scientific discovery and community engagement.

A new way to explore Neithercut Woodland

For the first time, Neithercut Woodland will have a structured database compiling observations of plants, animals, and other organisms that inhabit the property. Previously, there was no centralized record of the biodiversity in this CMU-owned natural area. The new project page on iNaturalist serves as a digital platform where participants can upload photographs and audio recordings of species they encounter. Once uploaded, these observations contribute to a growing dataset that can be used for research, education, and conservation efforts.

How the project works

Participants can join the CMU Neithercut Woodland Biodiversity project page on iNaturalist, a free app that enables users to document wildlife through photos or recorded sounds. The observations are then categorized and shared with fellow contributors. Currently, the project is designated under Clare County, but once 50 observations have been uploaded, the project will be updated to specifically reflect Neithercut Woodland and its boundaries. This enhancement will make it easier for users to search for property-specific observations.

Engaging students and the community

One of the key objectives of this initiative is to increase student involvement. CMU students can utilize the biodiversity project as a tool for coursework, research projects, and extracurricular activities such as nature clubs. The project also serves as an introduction to Neithercut Woodland for prospective students who may not be aware of this valuable natural resource owned by CMU. Beyond students, the general public, school groups, and community organizations are encouraged to participate, fostering a shared appreciation for biodiversity and conservation.

Why this matters

The benefits of the Neithercut Woodland Biodiversity Project are far-reaching. By collecting and organizing data on local species, CMU can make informed decisions about conservation and land management strategies for the property. The project also promotes a greater appreciation for nature, encouraging more people to explore and engage with the environment in a meaningful way. Additionally, biodiversity data collected through this project can be valuable for academic research and environmental studies.

Getting involved

Joining the project is simple and free. Anyone with a smartphone or camera can download the iNaturalist app, create an account, and begin uploading observations to the CMU Neithercut Woodland Biodiversity project page. Whether through class assignments, independent research, or recreational exploration, students and community members alike have the opportunity to contribute to an ever-growing repository of ecological knowledge.

For those interested in joining the project and exploring Neithercut Woodland, visit the official project page.

With this new initiative, CMU is taking a significant step forward in citizen science, environmental education, and biodiversity conservation. Through collaboration and participation, the university hopes to enhance understanding and appreciation of the natural world while ensuring the long-term preservation of Neithercut Woodland.