It's time to make observations for the City Nature Challenge!
We'll focus on the fields, forests and cypress swamps of the three parks along Grays Road.
Come with a fully charge phone or camera.
Bring snacks or lunch and a full water bottle. There are portable toilets at each site, but limited potable water.
Dress for the weather and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
We'll meet at the Main Entrance of Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm. We'll make observations as we walk the trails to Gatewood Preserve. We'll end the day at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp.
Those with mobility concerns can make observations near each of the meeting spots and around the Battle Creek Nature Center.
Preliminary Schedule:
9am: Meet at Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm Main Entrance
12pm: Meet at the Gatewood Preserve front gate parking
2pm: Meet at Battle Creek Nature Center
4pm: End at the Nature Center to upload observations and start identifications.
Schedule is subject to change: call or text Karyn if you can't find us! 443-684-1729.
Before the Activity:
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 28-May 1, 2023, 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 7 to be counted.
Information on the City Nature Challenge
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 28-May1 and 2) Identifying observations from April 28-May 7.
https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2023-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 8.
Here's an introductory video from 2021. https://youtu.be/8nU4_mmQsiM
In Calvert County: https://www.calvertparks.org/CNC/
DC City Nature Challenge: https://citynaturechallengedc.org/
Worldwide: http://citynaturechallenge.org/participate/
For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov
