Citizen Science Resources

Adaptation to rapid climate change necessitates a new level of involvement by citizens in areas such as weather, phenology and other types of nature study. Specifically, monitoring and data collection. Here are some resources for that.
First though, I want to do a shout out for Donna Long, and her excellent blog In Season that is about amateur science /phenology.
http://donnallong.com/

Weather

Storm Spotting
This involves training and becoming a "storm spotter". They work with the U.S. Natinal Weather Service in providing data about severe storms and are one of the key elements of the NOAA warning system.
http://www.weather.gov/skywarn/

For boaters on large water bodies: Voluntary Marine Observer's Program
http://www.weather.gov/om/marine/voluntary.htm

Are you already a weather "fan" or want to be? Then the Citizen Weather Observer Program is for you.
http://www.wxqa.com/

Phenology
"Phenology is derived from the Greek word phaino , meaning to show or appear. Phenology refers to recurring plant and animal life cycle stages, such as leafing and flowering, maturation of agricultural plants, emergence of insects, and migration of birds.  It is also the study of these recurring plant and animal life cycle stages, especially their timing and relationships with weather and climate." (NPN)

The most complete list of opportunities I have run into, courtesy of Donna Long. LOTS of fun stuff!
http://donnallong.com/nature-journal/citizen-science/

Wisconsin Phenology

The Wisconsin Phenology NetworkA regional partner in the National Phenology Network
http://www4.uwm.edu/wps/

Linnaeus after a day of "botanizing"

Phenology is a great outdoor activity that you can do in your back yard or where you hike , hunt, or fish. You can do it alone, with friends or with family.