Event box

Working With Citizen Science Data in GIS

Working With Citizen Science Data in GIS In-Person / Online

In this hands-on workshop led by the Library GIS TA, you will learn how to use citizen science datasets to perform spatial analysis in GIS. We will be using data from EDDMapS (Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System), a web-based mapping system for documenting invasive species and pest distribution – but the workflow you will learn can be used for other citizen science platforms, like iNaturalist and eBird. You will learn what citizen science is, how to download and import observational data into a GIS project, and how to apply a simple technique to address sampling bias inherent in citizen science datasets. By the end of the session, you will have made a map showcasing your choice of species distributions and gained foundational skills for integrating real-world spatial data into environmental research and conservation projects. We will be using QGIS, a free and open-source desktop GIS software, but the workflow is applicable to other GIS softwares as well. For in-person attendees, computers with QGIS preinstalled will be available for you to use. For virtual attendees, please have QGIS installed on your device before joining the session if you’d like to try the workflow.

This workshop will be recorded.


Location: Online and W. E. B. Du Bois Library, Calipari Room (Lower Level)

Date:
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Time:
10:00am - 11:15am
Time Zone:
Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
Location:
W. E. B. Du Bois Library, Calipari Room (Lower Level)
Audience:
  Alumni     Faculty     General Public     Graduate Students     Library Donors     Staff     Undergraduates  
Categories:
  Data Series     Workshops  

Registration is required. There are 43 in-person seats available. There are 82 online seats available.

Event Organizer

UMass Amherst Libraries