Creating the Urban Farmer's Almanac with Citizen Science Data

Area of Science:

• Urban ecology
• Entomology
• Citizen science

Background:

• Urban agriculture is expanding globally, with significant portions of city dwellers participating in food production.
• Identifying and managing insect biodiversity in urban farms is challenging due to habitat fragmentation, pollution, and introduced species.
• Urban growers often lack accessible data for effective insect management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce web-based citizen science programs for urban agriculture.
• To connect urban growers with data and expertise on urban insects.
• To improve insect management strategies in urban farming contexts.

Main Methods:

• Development and implementation of web-based citizen science platforms.
• Collaboration between citizen science volunteers and urban farmers.
• Data collection and analysis on urban insect biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Main Results:

• Citizen science initiatives provide valuable data for urban growers.
• Enhanced understanding of urban insect diversity and their roles.
• Facilitation of informed insect management decisions, including reduced insecticide application.

Conclusions:

• Citizen science empowers urban farmers with data for effective insect management.
• Urban agriculture's ecosystem value is demonstrated and enhanced through citizen science engagement.
• Increased community involvement in food production, security, and justice issues.