Groundwater Monitoring through Citizen Science: A Review of Project Designs and Results

Abstract

Citizen science is increasingly prominent in the field of freshwater monitoring. Although there is a large body of literature related to surface water monitoring, less experience exists regarding citizen-based monitoring of groundwater resources. This calls for a better understanding of the actual experiences of citizen science in the field of groundwater monitoring, including specific project designs and results. Based on a systematic review of 33 citizen-based groundwater monitoring activities, we analyze (1) the design of citizen science projects, including their general project characteristics, institutional characteristics, citizen characteristics, and forms of interactions, as well as (2) their results, including their data outputs, outcomes on citizens, and impacts on problem-solving. Results show that projects mainly have positive results on data quantity and quality and partly influence the citizens themselves and their contributions to groundwater-related problem-solving. Information on project design characteristics is scarce and mostly hints at the relevance of specific process mechanisms such as training and feedback. Based on these results, we suggest groundwater-related projects to consider involving citizen scientists in monitoring activities in order to benefit research and citizens alike. Such involvement needs, however, careful design including relevant training to unfold its full potential for both sides. Researchers are advised here to rigorously report on both design and results to further improve citizen science practice in the future.