Journal article
Citizen Science and Natural Resource Management: A Social Network Analysis of Two Community-Based Water Monitoring Programs
Society & Natural Resources, Vol.36(6), pp.600-621
2023
Abstract
In natural resource management contexts, citizen science programs often involve a diversity of actors collaborating in broad social networks. However, the characteristics and functioning of these networks has received limited attention. In this article, we demonstrate the benefits of applying social network research to citizen science practice. Through a mixed methods approach, we compare data sharing and collaboration networks of two community-based water monitoring programs in Australia. The quantitative component revealed that despite similarities in actor diversity and activities, both programs have created divergent network structures (centralized vs decentralized) corresponding to their scale of influence in environmental decision-making (regional vs local impacts). The qualitative component showed how individuals navigated their relationships and managed key tensions inherent to network functioning. This study provides new insights on the role of social networks in citizen science and concludes by recommending program leaders adopt a "networking mindset" to maximize their sphere of influence.
Details
- Title
- Citizen Science and Natural Resource Management: A Social Network Analysis of Two Community-Based Water Monitoring Programs
- Authors
- Patrick R. Bonney (Corresponding Author) - Federation UniversityBirgita D. Hansen (Author) - Federation UniversityClaudia Baldwin (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Sustainability Research Centre
- Publication details
- Society & Natural Resources, Vol.36(6), pp.600-621
- Publisher
- Taylor & Francis Inc.
- DOI
- 10.1080/08941920.2023.2183445
- ISSN
- 1521-0723
- Grant note
- This research is supported by the Regional University Networks Water Futures Fund and the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend and RTP Fee-Offset Scholarship through Federation University Australia.
- Organisation Unit
- School of Law and Society; Engage Research Lab; Sustainability Research Centre
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99716197102621
- Output Type
- Journal article
Metrics
29 Record Views
InCites Highlights
These are selected metrics from InCites Benchmarking & Analytics tool, related to this output
- Collaboration types
- Domestic collaboration
- Web Of Science research areas
- Development Studies
- Environmental Studies
- Regional & Urban Planning
- Sociology
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This output has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:
Source: InCites