Become an Observer
Join the Oregon Season Tracker (OST) Program and become part of a local community of citizen science observers.
Steps to becoming an OST observer:
- Enroll in Online OST training on Ideal-logic (to access OSU online trainings you must register using one of these types of email account: Gmail, Microsoft Hotmail or Outlook, or Facebook email – all are available free if you usually use a different email server).
- Complete four online training modules (about 2-3 hours of self-paced study) including registering a free account with our national partners CoCoRaHS and Nature’s Notebook.
- Purchase CoCoRaHS-approved rain gauge online (ranges $32.75 – 48.00 + shipping). Suggested retailer: WeatherYourWay.
- Contact the Oregon Season Tracker program coordinator, Sarah, reporting your station number and site name.
- Start observing and reporting!
- Keep in touch by reading "The Observer" the OST E-newsletter.
We offer free hands-on sessions in person or a remote Zoom session, as the situation allows. In the meantime, get your questions answered by contacting Sarah Cameron.
2023 Upcoming Events:
Online Self-paced Training: is open on demand and available by using the orange registration button above.
Introduction to Oregon Season Tracker: these online webinars are an introduction to the Oregon Season Tracker program to learn more about becoming a volunteer. These are not volunteer trainings - and commitment to volunteering is not required!
- Summer or Fall 2023, dates pending
Optional Zoom Sessions go with the Online Training: Designed for new or current volunteers wanting additional skill-building experiences outside of the online training. It is strongly suggested to complete the online training before attend these Zoom sessions.
- Summer of Fall 2023, dates pending
Oregon Season Tracker in the Classroom
OST is a great fit for students in grades 4th – 12th. See our OST Classrooms page for in school and non-formal educators.