Citizen Science Month happens every April. It’s a time to celebrate community science — when volunteers come together to collect meaningful data that drives real impact. As part of our larger ForUsTree initiative, HARC, along with the Houston Harris Heat Action Team (H3AT), organized the 2024 H3AT Mapping Campaign, which turned out to be the largest community heat-mapping effort in the country.
Over 150 volunteers, or community scientists, took to the streets on August 10, 2024, with thermal sensors mounted to their cars to map heat at three different times during that day – 6–7 AM, 3–4 PM, and 7–8 PM. They measured temperatures at a neighborhood level, collecting critical data to help address extreme heat in some of our most vulnerable communities around Houston. If it weren’t for these volunteers, the H3AT Mapping Campaign wouldn’t have happened, and we wouldn’t have the 431,348 data points that they collected to help us better understand how heat interacts differently across Houston.
Community science, also referred to as citizen science, is participatory research where non-scientists (members of the public) contribute to scientific efforts by collecting data, sharing observations, or supporting analysis. When more people are involved in research, we can gather more data, faster, across a broader area.
That kind of data can make a life-saving difference. In 2023, heat-related deaths reached record highs nationwide, and Texas alone saw more than 300 fatalities from heat-related causes (Harris County Public Health). Those most impacted often live in communities already facing environmental and economic challenges.
By identifying Houston’s hottest areas through the H3AT Mapping Campaign, we can help public officials and community leaders develop better neighborhood-level solutions that protect these communities.
In honor of Citizen Science Month, we’re profiling a few of the many passionate volunteers who made last year’s campaign possible.
Natalia Rodriguez, Project Director, Center for Health & Nature
Why she got involved:
“I’ve lived in Houston most of my life and remember when summers were more enjoyable. Now, certain neighborhoods lack tree canopy, experience more heat, and have limited climate mitigation. Documenting these disparities is essential.”
Her hopes for the future:
“More trees! In the Medical Center and Hermann Park area, shaded areas create an immediate drop in temperature. Imagine if all our neighborhoods had mature, native trees that provide shade, reduce heat, and support year-round outdoor activity.”
Ana Tapia, Sr. Director of Environmental Projects, Houston Wilderness
Why she got involved:
“We’ve used the data from the 2020 campaign for grants, but I’ve also used it to help educate individuals who push back on the ‘work’ of having a tree or two in their yard. The heat mapping helps them visualize the heat they already feel during the long, hot summer months.”
Her hopes for the future:
“One thing I keep seeing is the lack of space for green infrastructure in lower-income areas. People don’t have room to plant a tree in their tiny lots due to utility lines and drainage. With the right neighborhood design, we’ll make big strides toward equity.”
Edward Pettitt, Founder, Friends of Columbia Tap
Why he got involved:
“Third Ward is impacted by the urban heat island effect. We’ve got a lot of new development and trees being cut down. Our trails and streets don’t have enough canopy. We’re feeling the effects of heat and disinvestment firsthand.”
His hopes for the future:
“More trees, more equity in how shade and green spaces are distributed. Every neighborhood should have access to cool, walkable outdoor spaces.”
These citizen scientists are more than just volunteers; they’re advocates and community builders. Thank you to the community scientists who volunteered for the H3AT Mapping Campaign!
Learn more: www.h3at.org
HARC is an equal opportunity provider.
Funding for this project provided by the USDA Forest Service, Urban and Community Forestry Program.
