Butterflies are monitored between June 15 and August 1. Plants are monitored between August 15 to October 1. Monitoring on each prairie site is conducted once every two years. PrairieWatch Citizen Scientists measure the amount and type of herbaceous vegetation present, survey selected prairie plant indicator species, determine the amount of woody vegetation invading the prairie, and conduct a census of butterfly indicator species. Other basic information collected includes the size, shape and human uses of the prairie and surrounding land cover.
All data collection is based on standard scientific field monitoring techniques.
Data collected by Citizen Scientists are quality control checked and submitted to a statewide monitoring database used by scientists to gauge long-term trends in the health of Illinois ecosystems. Scientists, landowners and other interested citizens can access monitoring data in various CTAP and other reports, and through the EcoWatch Network's web site. In addition to training and monitoring, EcoWatch conducts other activities for the benefit of Citizen Scientists and other interested citizens. EcoWatch regional offices organize volunteer enrichment events, conduct habitat walks, and assist volunteer groups in organizing habitat clean-up events. Citizen Scientists and other volunteers are also invited to assist in site evaluations, training, and monitoring supervision for newly trained volunteers and high school science classes.