Observe to Conserve: Learning iNaturalist in Acadia

Description

Help inform our science! Join us for a hands-on introduction to the iNaturalist mobile app, an online tool for exploring and documenting plants, animals, fungi, and overall biodiversity. Connect with nature and learn how to use iNaturalist to share your observations! By submitting everyday sightings of plants, animals, and other wildlife, you’ll contribute to a global database that scientists around the world, including those at Schoodic Institute and Acadia National Park, use to monitor biodiversity. During this 2-hour program, you will be introduced to iNaturalist and its role in citizen science efforts. You’ll learn the basic functions of the app on your smartphone and use it to engage in a bioblitz, a community event where participants record as many species as possible within a specific area and time frame. This program blends a mix of outdoor exploration with indoor classroom time. All outdoor activity will be on easy, paved walking paths, with optional off-trail activity based on participants’ comfort level. Please dress accordingly – we recommend sunscreen, light layers, and sturdy shoes. We also suggest bringing water, snacks, and your smartphone with iNaturalist downloaded (if possible); all other gear will be provided by Schoodic Institute. If you need to borrow a smartphone, please indicate so during registration. Please note, this program is for ages 15 and up, unless accompanied by an adult. For those under 15, the ratio must be 1:1 with a parent/guardian over 15 years old. At this time, group sizes will be limited to 14. Free to sign up! Please register online at https://schoodicinstitute.org/event/observe-to-conserve-ii/ This program will also be offered on August 7th.