Science and management advancements made possible by the USA National
Phenology Network's Nature's Notebook platform
Abstract
The USA National Phenology Network was established in 2007 to formalize
standardized phenology monitoring across the country. The aims of the
Network are to collect, store, and share phenology data and information
to support scientific discovery, decision-making, an appreciation for
phenology, and equitable engagement within the Network. To support these
aims, the Network launched Nature’s Notebook, a rigorous platform for
monitoring plant and animal phenology, in 2009. Since the launch of
Nature’s Notebook, participants across the country have contributed over
28M phenology records. Participants range from backyard observers with
an interest in nature to researchers and natural resource managers
asking specific questions. We survey the breadth of studies and applied
decisions that have utilized Nature’s Notebook and the consequent data.
The dimensionality of the dataset maintained by the Network is a
function of Nature’s Notebook users; this insight is key to shaping the
Network’s future data collection activities.