By Big updates are on the way at CitSci! This fall, we’re launching new location privacy tools and changing how long data download files are kept.
Here’s what’s new and what it means for the projects you participate in and/or lead.
New: Location Blurring, Launching October 7
Location data can be incredibly valuable for participatory science. It can also be sensitive. A precise observation point can reveal a rare species’ habitat or someone’s private property.
CitSci already lets project teams control data privacy, including at the species level. Starting October 7, project managers can choose to blur observation locations, so the exact locations aren’t visible to participants on a map.
Blurring swaps each exact point for an approximate one. Maps and shared data still show the general area, without giving away the precise spot. Project managers keep access to the exact coordinates, so the science is still robust.
Turning it on is simple for project managers: choose location blurring when you edit your project. We’ll be releasing a more detailed tutorial about the Location Blurring feature soon, but in the meantime, you can refer to the below screenshots.
Project managers can edit location privacy by clicking on the “Edit Project” button.
Then, project managers can choose to edit location privacy specifically.
After, they can set the level of access available on the project map, showcased on the main project page.
Heads Up: Downloaded Files Will Expire Starting November 1
Starting November 1, data download files will be removed from CitSci 30 days after they’re created. Any data download file from prior to October 1, 2026 will be deleted on November 1, 2026.
You can navigate to any project’s data download page from the home screen – depending on their privacy settings and who is allowed to view the data.
Don’t worry, your project data isn’t going anywhere. Only the downloaded file is removed, and you can request a fresh download anytime.
Soon, the page screenshotted below will look a little different! You won’t see every dataset you’ve ever downloaded, starting November 1. You’ll just see the recent ones.
If there’s a download you want to keep, save a copy to your computer or shared drive.
The Bottom Line: The Flexibility You Need to Do Great Science
Every project collects location data for its own reasons and works on its own schedule. These updates help you protect sensitive observations while keeping your data easy to access when you need it.
Questions about how these changes affect your project? Reach out to us at http://bit.ly/citscifaq
