The National Park Service (NPS) is requesting approval to use mobile and web-based applications (e.g., iNaturalist, eBird, etc.) as a means to record on-site species observations during NPS sponsored citizen science events. iNaturalist and eBird are third-party websites that allow the public to provide observations that include locations, photographs, and sound. Both of these platforms are currently being used by visitors in parks. OMB approval will allow parks to sponsor events and use the tools to collect data during the events.The participation of citizen scientists via iNaturalist provides immediate on-site input that is often not available with the current level of NPS staffing.
US Code:
54 USC 100702
Name of Law: National Park Service Protection Interpretation and research in System
US Code:
15 USC 3724
Name of Law: Crowdsourcing and Citizen Science
US Code:
16 USC 1a-7
Name of Law: National Park Service Organic Act of 1916
The adjusted net increase is reflected in our request for an annual increase of 51,250 additional observations and 4,271 respondent burden hours. This would result in an annual total of 112,500 observations and 9,375 respondent burden hours. The program change for this collection is based upon the notable success we had using iNaturalist during the Centennial BioBlitz events. We would now like to request an increase in the number of annual iNaturalist observations for this collection as well as add eBird. We did not feel it necessary to have a separate burden for non-federal scientists. This category has been removed and the burden for this group is now included in the estimated burden for iNaturalist and eBird.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.