Here are some trainings to prepare you for the City Nature Challenge:
- You Can Be a Citizen Scientist: An Intro to the 2022 City Nature Challenge March 23rd, 7:00 - 8:00 pm with Deborah Barber, The Nature Conservancy
- You Can Be a Citizen Scientist: An Intro to the 2022 City Nature Challenge April 12th,12:00 - 1:00 pm with Ana Ka’ahanui, Capital Nature
- You Can Be a Citizen Scientist: An Intro to the 2022 City Nature Challenge April 20th from 7:00 - 8:00 pm with Carrie Seltzer, iNaturalist
What is the City Nature Challenge?
The City Nature Challenge is not just about cities! All observations made in Calvert County between Friday, April 29 and Monday, May 2 will count for the Washington, DC Metro Area City Nature Challenge.
Please join the project and spread the word to your friends and neighbors.
The City Nature Challenge has two parts: 1) Making observations between April 29-May 2 and 2) Identifying observations from April 29-May 8.
This is the volunteer opportunity for first task. This is a self-guided volunteer opportunity, so go explore on your own schedule during the weekend. During the four days, just go make observations! They'll be added automatically if you use the App. (see details below)
https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2022-washington-dc-metro-area
You can also help with the second task to identify observations. Respond to the Identification opportunity. The collective global results will be announced on May 9.
Here's an introductory video from 2021. https://youtu.be/8nU4_mmQsiM
How to Participate
1. Download the iNaturalist app (or go online to www.inaturalist.org) and create a free account.
2. Join the Project on iNaturalist https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2022-washington-dc-metro-area
3. During the weekend of April 29-May 2, 2022, individuals and groups will be on the hunt for animals, plants, mushrooms, and other life forms. These observations will be documented on iNaturalist and counted towards our region's tally. As a participant, it is up to you how much or how little you take part! Do only what feels safe for you & your family and is in accordance with all your local regulations. If you do not use the app to make observations, make sure you upload all photos before May 9 to be counted.
Attend an iNaturalist Training
We're working on some virtual training ideas. Respond to this opportunity and we'll keep you informed. Until then, check out the tutorials on INaturalist.
Information on the City Nature Challenge
In Calvert County: https://www.calvertparks.org/CNC/
Washington, DC region (which includes Calvert County: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2022-washington-dc-metro-area
Worldwide: http://citynaturechallenge.org/participate/
For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov
Trainings, Guided Outings and Identification parties:
Join Karyn Molines on one or more outings and learn about iNaturalist and the City Nature Challenge.
- DATES TBD
