Table 1 The OPAL national citizen science surveys

OPAL Soil and Earthworm Survey

2009

Which species of earthworm are found in which soil and habitat types

1. Assessment of site characteristics

2. Assessment of soil properties

3. Earthworm ID

Hypothesis led and policy links e.g. [71]

OPAL Air Survey

2009

Bio-indicators assessing local pollution and distribution of lichens and Tar spot on Sycamore

1. Assessment of site characteristics

2. Assessment of tree characteristics

3. Identification of indicator lichens/fungus

Hypothesis led e.g. [56]

OPAL Water Survey

2010

Water quality of ponds

1. Assessment of site characteristics

2. Assessment of water clarity

3. pH test

4. Identification of indicator invertebrates

Hypothesis led e.g. [59]

OPAL Biodiversity Survey

2010

Condition of hedges

1. Assessment of site and hedge characteristics

2. Assessment of food resources

3. Identification of invertebrates

4. Tracking presence of other species

Hypothesis led: e.g. [70]

OPAL Climate Survey

2011

Human activities and climate

1. Observations of aircraft contrails

2. Measurement of wind speed and direction

3. Thermal comfort

Validation e.g. [57]

OPAL Bugs Count Survey

2011

Impact of a changing environment on urban and rural areas

1. Assessment of site characteristics

2. Assessment of microhabitats

3. Identification of invertebrates

Distribution monitoring e.g. [60]

OPAL Tree Health Survey

2013

Condition of trees and the pests and diseases that affect them

1. Assessment of site characteristics

2. ID of common pests and diseases

3. ID of threatening pests and diseases

Policy requirement: e.g. Defra strategy [58]