Gathering perceptions to strengthen program planning: A citizen science project highlighting deer impacts on vegetation

Abstract

White-tailed deer can significantly influence the composition and health of forests. University of MinnesotaExtension implemented a citizen science project to help monitor the impact of deer populations on forests. Prior to design of the program, we administered a survey to potential volunteers to understand theirperceptions of and knowledge about deer and their willingness to participate in our citizen science project. Thesurvey responses helped us make informed decisions when developing our program, including decisionsregarding not having a negative deer message, teaching more information about the impact of deer onvegetation, and providing both in-person and web-based resources for volunteers.