A Proposed Complete Biodiversity Assessment for Cincinnati Using Citizen Science

Abstract

Record ID: 95

Program Affiliation: Capstone

Presentation Type: Video

Abstract: To create sustainable green spaces in Cincinnati, it is essential to understand the city's biodiversity. Invasive species have been a struggle for the city due to the competition created for native species, which reduces biodiversity and ecosystem services. Following the priority action from the Green Cincinnati Plan that was suggested through community outreach sessions to have a biodiversity assessment done for Cincinnati incorporating citizen science. For my capstone, I researched the current biodiversity assessments in Cincinnati and worldwide, the gaps in these assessments, and how to integrate citizen science. Through my research, I found that the City Biodiversity Index created by Singapore while performing its biodiversity assessment would be a valuable tool, along with using apps such as iNaturalist or Field Maps to incorporate citizen science. My research also suggests breaking Cincinnati down into smaller quadrants and performing biodiversity assessments in smaller sections. Understanding biodiversity in the area will help with creating these green spaces written into the Green Cincinnati Plan and possibly boost biodiversity in Cincinnati.