Herbarium specimens are fundamental to our understanding of biodiversity on Earth over time. To make these important resources universally accessible, we are digitizing all 7.8 million specimens within the William and Lynda Steere Herbarium and making them publicly available through the Virtual Herbarium. We need the help of volunteers (like you) to complete this historic undertaking!
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP
Imaging
Capture high-res images of herbarium specimens
Transcription
Capture scientifically important metadata from specimens
Georeferencing
Interpret specimen location data for mapping and analyses
Stewardship
Help curatorial staff maintain the collections
HOW YOU CAN JOIN
Regardless of your schedule and anticipated level of commitment, there are opportunities to make a meaningful difference for biodiversity research and conservation. Here are some ways to get started!
- Contact our outreach coordinator for info about current volunteer projects. Email: kwatson@nybg.org
- Submit a formal application through our Volunteer Program (Check “Plant Science/Herbarium” as one of your areas of interest!)
- Become a self-taught Community Scientist and learn to Volunteer Virtually
- Sign up to attend a group training workshop for volunteers.
VOLUNTEER BENEFITS
- Free, year-round NYBG admission for yourself and two guests (parking included)
- 20% discount at all Garden dining venues and Shop in the Garden
- Borrowing privileges at the LuEsther T. Mertz Botanical Library
- Free enrollment in NYBG Adult Education courses (pending eligibility)
- Invitation to Science & Humanities Department seminars
