House Memorial 31 (HM31) is a resolution introduced by Linda Serrato in the New Mexico State Legislature aimed at promoting the use of citizen science within state agencies. The bill highlights the significance of citizen science as a collaborative effort among citizens, government, and scientists to gather valuable data about the environment, which includes monitoring air and water quality as well as understanding local wildlife. By empowering citizens through volunteering in data collection, HM31 aims to enhance scientific literacy in the community and foster a sense of environmental stewardship among the younger generation.
The resolution acknowledges New Mexico's vast natural resources and the challenges state agencies face in monitoring approximately fifty-three million acres of land. It proposes that encouraging the use of citizen science can alleviate some of the resource constraints faced by state agencies while simultaneously involving community members, particularly youth, in real-world scientific processes. This initiative aligns with previous efforts, specifically referencing House Memorial 34 from the 2024 legislative session, which called for a working group to develop strategies to enhance citizen science practices across state agencies.
A notable aspect of HM31 is the call for the Governor of New Mexico to officially declare a "Citizen Science Day." This day is intended to raise public awareness about the benefits of citizen science and to celebrate the contributions of local initiatives like the Wild Friends program at the University of New Mexico School of Law. The establishment of this day aims not only to recognize community efforts but also to promote broader educational opportunities in science and environmental advocacy.
While HM31 seeks to promote positive collaboration between state agencies and community members, it also brings attention to possible contention regarding the implementation of citizen science programs. Critics may raise concerns about the reliability and validity of data collected through citizen science, as well as the potential for miscommunication or misunderstanding between scientific experts and volunteer citizens. Nonetheless, supporters believe that with adequate guidance and training, citizen science can serve as a crucial tool for enhancing environmental monitoring efforts while educating the public about scientific principles.