Citizen Science Youth Day 2025
NatureCK Citizen Science Youth Day 2025
Read the full survey report here:
On August 10, 2025, NatureCK hosted Youth Day, where 16 families explored local nature and shared their thoughts on protecting rivers and wetlands. Each family received a Nature Exploration Kit to encourage observing wildlife and recording environmental changes as part of citizen science.
Key Findings
• Wildlife Sightings – Families frequently notice fish, frogs, and turtles, showing strong awareness of local biodiversity.
• Water Pollution Awareness – Most recognized that water can appear clean but still be polluted, reflecting good environmental understanding.
• Observations of the St. Clair River – Families described the river as blue, green, or brown, demonstrating valuable citizen science contributions.
• Pollution Sources – Many identified harmful items that shouldn’t go down drains, though answers varied, showing room for more education.
• Protecting Nature – All families agreed it’s important to protect rivers and wetlands.
• Action in the Community – Many have already taken part in clean-ups, directly helping local waterways.
• Understanding Pollution – Most defined pollution as “something that makes nature sick,” with one child’s misinterpretation highlighting how youth understand issues differently.
• Where Families Are From – Participants came from across Chatham-Kent, adding diverse observations to the project.
• Family Reflections – Families love outdoor activities and want to protect nature for future generations.
Overall Insights
The survey revealed that families in Chatham-Kent are deeply connected to nature, already engaged in clean-ups, and eager to continue learning. The findings confirm that everyone can be a scientist—and that family participation strengthens community care for the environment.
