The Island Alliance supports citizen science programming as part of our efforts to increase awareness of the park. The islands are a living laboratory in close proximity to an urban area and offer a unique opportunity for the exploration of biodiversity. Citizen science programs conducted by the National Park Service offer hands-on opportunities for individuals, students, amateur and professional naturalists, families and community groups to connect with nature while they contribute relevant data to the scientific research projects that are on-going in the park.

This collected data provides valuable information to park managers and strengthens their ability to make sound management decisions that support the park mission. Effective conservation and stewardship depends on long-term public involvement. Citizen science programs help make connections by linking communities, scientists and decision makers. This makes the park relevant to everyday lives and in this way encourages the stewardship of park resources on many levels. For a current listing of available programs, link to http://www.bostonislands.com/biodiversity.