Science and Public Engagement in National Parks: Examples and Advice from Young Scientists

National parks, including Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, offer unique opportunities for early career scientists to engage with public audiences and communicate research effectively. This study highlights the potential of national parks as platforms for science communication, demonstrating how scientists can leverage park resources, partnerships, and established relationships to share their work with diverse audiences—from students to policymakers. The authors emphasize the importance of building strong collaborations with park staff, interpreters, and local communities to maximize the impact of scientific research. Through examples such as curriculum development for high school students, workshops for teachers, and social media engagement, the study showcases practical approaches to science communication that can foster public understanding of climate change, conservation, and ecological management. The findings underscore the value of national parks in bridging the gap between scientific research and societal engagement, encouraging more scientists to integrate public communication into their careers.

Booker, J., Nadeau, C., Saiyed, S., & Watkins, T. (2023). Science and Public Engagement in National Parks: Examples and Advice from Young Scientists. The Bulletin of the Ecological Society of America, 104(2). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/bes2.2045