Supporting Environmental Stewards' Needs with Technology

Within the context of a program focused on learning concepts and practices for keeping watersheds healthy and then completing community-based projects, we explore ways that NatureNet, a prototype mobile and web-based technology, can support volunteer watershed stewards. Using a mixed methods approach, our analysis of the experiences of 50 volunteers over a 16-month study period revealed that two of their strongest needs are: (1) place-based information about the location in which they are stewards, and (2) support for navigating resource challenges, including information about watersheds, tools (both digital and physical), introductions to others, and financial support in order to complete their projects. Using a combination of theory and iterative design thinking, we describe design strategies to address these needs. This study informs research beyond our specific context by providing an approach to technology design that supports development of community-driven nature projects.