Community Science: Artificial Light at Night
Mid Sound Fisheries, United States Geological Survey, and King Conservation District are looking for volunteers to help with nighttime light measurements during the salmon growth period in Lakes Washington and Sammamish.
Volunteers will record data on the weather condition, light level, and nearby lighting displays to help determine the variability of nocturnal light during this important salmon period. No prior experience with data collection is necessary and all volunteers will be trained prior to their first shift.
How is Artificial Light at Night Impacting Fish?
Artificial light at night (ALAN) illuminates the night sky equivalent to two full moons, with clouds increasing the light level by reflecting urban light back down towards the earth. This urban skyglow makes it easier for predators to see and feed upon baby salmon, leading to fewer salmon surviving the lake migration phase. Fewer baby salmon mean fewer adults returning in the fall, affecting the entire food web - including us.
Data Collection
Volunteers will work in teams of 2 -4 people, measuring light at night 2 - 3 evenings during the three time periods below:
February 4th - 18th
March 5th - 20th
April 3rd - 18th
Volunteer shifts will start 1-hour after sunset and last about 1.5 hours. The total time commitment for the program is around 15 hours, including a required, in-person, training. See below for more details.
Volunteer Trainings
Volunteer trainings will be held at Gene Coulon Park for volunteers living near south Lake Washington or Lake Sammamish, and at Fritz Hedges Waterway Park for volunteers living near North Seattle. Volunteers must attend one of these trainings prior to their first shift.
Tuesday, January 27th:
6:30pm - 8:00pm | Gene Coulon Park
1201 Lake Washington Blvd N, Renton, WA 98056
Thursday, January 29th:
6:30pm - 8:00pm | Fritz Hedges Waterway Park
1117 Northeast Boat Street, Seattle, WA 98105
Questions? Please send us an email.