Community Science & Collaborative Projects
Annual Christmas Bird Count: For the past 34 years, Tin Mountain Conservation Center has organized an annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count for the Mt. Washington Valley. During a 24-hour period in mid- December, staff and Tin Mountain volunteers canvass the area to record both the species and number of individual birds observed. We send our data in to be counted along with other Christmas Bird Count data collected nationwide to help understand trends in bird populations across the country. Click here to learn more.
Summer Loon Monitoring: Each summer, Tin Mountain staff volunteer with the Loon Preservation Committee to study the ecology of locally breeding loons.
Extended Learning Opportunities (ELOs): As an ELO partner with Kennett High School in Conway, NH TMCC provides engaging science research opportunities for upper level HS students. Students use real-world data and field collection protocols to create a learning opportunity tailored to their interest. Past TMCC/KHS ELOs have included setting up a long term forest plot study, designing interpretive teaching materials for elementary schools, and educational outreach on climate action. Interested in pursuing an ELO with Tin Mountain? Contact Mike Dufilho.
NABA Butterfly Count: The North American Butterfly Association has been conducting butterfly count programs throughout the US, Canada and Mexico since 1993. Similar to the Christmas Bird Count, a 15-mile diameter count circle will be established and we will begin monitoring the area on an annual basis. Tin Mountain will host the area’s first count on July 22-23, 2023, and we are looking for volunteers. Sounds overwhelming, don’t be deterred! Check out these great training opportunities:
Statewide Trainings via Zoom
- February 22 – Mark Ellingwood: basic butterfly biology & larger common species
- March 8 – George Dewolf: explore the world of hairstreaks and blue butterflies
- March 22 – Heidi Holman: orange and black butterflies such as the fritillaries and checkerspots
- April 5 – Rick Van de Poll: challenging species including the browns and skippers
During the series you will find out about future field days offered in your area, including a July Butterfly Count that will occur at 6 locations across the state! This series will provide you with an eye-opening experience to connect with species you may not have noticed in the past – as soon as the world begins to green up this spring! No matter what your skill level is, you’re welcome.