Citizen Science in the Chamonix Valley
Observe the mountains and contribute to scientific research
The Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley is an open-air laboratory where changes in climate and biodiversity can be observed directly in the field. Thanks to citizen science programs, anyone can contribute to scientific research by making simple observations during their mountain outings. By walking, observing, taking photos, or simply taking the time to note what you see, you’re helping to deepen our understanding of Alpine ecosystems and how they’re changing.
Citizen science turns every observation into a valuable tool for understanding and preserving the mountains.
Programs Led by CREA Mont-Blanc
CREA Mont-Blanc is developing several citizen science programs open to everyone, focused on monitoring mountain ecosystems. Here are a few examples:
Phénoclim: Track the seasonal cycles of trees (budding, flowering, senescence) to understand the impact of climate change on alpine vegetation.
Aux Arbres Citoyens: Observe the growth of trees along trails and help with simple, regular monitoring of their development.
Wild Mont-Blanc: Help identify animals using photos from camera traps installed in the mountain range.
Snow Depth: Track changes in snow depth at a selected site to document winter variations.
Egg-Laying Count: Observe the early life stages of the common frog in designated ponds and track their development.
And many other programs to discover!
Discover all the programs supported by CREA via the SPOT platform
The CiMAE High-Altitude Pond Monitoring Program
The CiMAE program—Characterization and Inventory of High-Altitude Ponds and Their Ecology—is led by France Nature Environnement Haute-Savoie (FNE 74), with significant scientific involvement from INRAE and associated researchers.
This program aims to better understand the functioning and evolution of mountain ponds, which are essential habitats that are highly sensitive to environmental changes.
To learn more about the CiMAE Project
National citizen science programs
Vigie-Nature: A suite of programs run by the National Museum of Natural History (MNHN) to monitor common biodiversity (birds, insects, plants, etc.).
Lichen Go: A national program for observing lichens, which are used as bioindicators of air quality.
SPIPOLL: A photographic monitoring program for pollinating insects to better understand their diversity and ecological role.
