Calling Citizen Science Volunteers – Urban Heat Island Mapping Project, July 8-24
Logo: FACS and GM Urban Heat Island Mapping Project
The Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions (FACS) and GMU are jointly coordinating an Urban Heat Island Mapping project and need citizen science Volunteering support.
This initiative will map temperature variations in the Fairfax County, Arlington, and the City of Alexandria area. Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related mortality in the United States and can vary dramatically depending on many factors like tree density.
Citizen scientists will collect data using temperature and humidity sensors along provided routes on “Measurement Day” – which will occur in mid to late July when summer temperatures are historically at their hottest.
Sign up as a driver (need a car), a rider (to monitor the temperature sensor), or as a 2–3-person team to handle both. There are 3 time slots during the day; you can volunteer for all 3 (preferred) or just one, and you can select the area you’d like to monitor. FMN Students can receive service hours and training will be provided.
Volunteer Expectations:
- Watch the recorded volunteer training before your assigned shift(s).
- Each team is responsible for picking up a sensor and measurement equipment from a designated pickup location prior to the Measurement Day. Flexible pickup arrangements may be available if needed.
- Drivers and Riders should coordinate with their team prior to Measurement Day to figure out transportation and logistics. Arrive on time and be prepared to complete your assigned route.