Citizen scientists make a direct contribution to research while practicing hands-on science in the field and learning about environmental issues. Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust depends on citizen science volunteers for a number of its environmental monitoring programs, including collecting fresh and salt water quality data, documenting fresh water invasive plants, tracking potentially harmful phytoplankton blooms, monitoring the condition of area shell middens, and tracking horseshoe crab populations.

Coastal Rivers is hosting a presentation on these initiatives from 5:00 to 6:30 PM on Tuesday, January 28 at the Denny Conservation and Education Center at 3 Round Top Lane in Damariscotta.

Coastal Rivers’ Director of Education and Citizen Science Sarah Gladu and Land and Water Stewardship Manager Carolyn Shubert will discuss how the data collected by volunteers will contribute to our understanding of how environmental conditions in Salt Bay and in the estuary are changing over time. Participants will learn what is involved in each program and how they can help. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to share their experiences.

The event is free of charge. Registration is online at coastalrivers.org/events

Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, formerly Damariscotta River Association and Pemaquid Watershed Association, is a non-profit, membership supported, and nationally accredited land trust and conservation organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of the greater Pemaquid peninsula and Damariscotta River region.

Coastal Rivers has active programs in the areas of land conservation, stewardship, community education, water quality monitoring, marine conservation and cultural preservation.

Visitors are welcome at Coastal Rivers’ many properties throughout the region. For more information about Coastal Rivers, call (207) 563-1393, email info@coastalrivers.org, or visit www.coastalrivers.org