Participants will take part in biological surveying as part of a global initiative.
The City of St. Catharines is encouraging residents to participate in one of the world's largest science events this spring.
As part of the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge, participants will take part in a weekend of biological surveying from April 29th to May 2nd.
"The City Nature Challenge is a great way to encourage residents of all ages to get outdoors and connect with nature by becoming citizen scientists for the day. I encourage residents to help catalogue the native plants and animals within our city," said Mayor Walter Sendzik. "By getting outside and exploring our natural habitat, you can help the global scientific community better understand the world’s ecosystem and our unique place within it."
The City says participants will get a chance to enjoy nature while recording and submitting as many species as possible within the St. Catharines boundary.
This will be followed by a week of identifying was was found, using the free iNaturalist app.
"Species can include almost anything - living, dead or otherwise - as long as it provides evidence of life," says Ilyse Norton, development horticultural technician. "Plants, animals, fungi, slime molds, scat, fur, tracks, shells, and even carcasses can be submitted."
The competition began in 2016, and this year will include over 400 cities.
Challenge results will be announced on Monday, May 9th.
More information can be found here.
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