Challenge offers connection with natural environment, data collection on local species 

West Michigan residents are invited to transform into community scientists during the upcoming West Michigan City Nature Challenge being led by John Ball Zoo. 

 

City Nature Challenge takes place April 25-28 through a free app called iNaturalist. During the challenge, thousands of nature enthusiasts from around the world will collectively observe and record the plants, animals, fungi and other organisms in local cities, parks and natural areas. This year, John Ball Zoo is facing the Detroit Zoo in a friendly competition to see which city can document the most wildlife. 

 

“At John Ball Zoo, one of our goals is to inspire our community to engage in wildlife conservation, and City Nature Challenge is a great opportunity for people of all ages to get started,” said Travis Kurtz, community science coordinator at John Ball Zoo. “We encourage West Michigan residents to get outside and experience the biodiversity right here in our community.” 

 

Several local organizations including John Ball Zoo are coordinating the City Nature Challenge across Allegan, Barry, Kent and Ottawa counties. Organizers are encouraging residents to download the app, join “City Nature Challenge: West Michigan” and step outside to take pictures of naturally occurring plants and animals in their environment.  

 

Data from iNaturalist has been used hundreds of times by scientists in studies that help policymakers make informed decisions about dedicating resources to conservation work.  

 

This year, there are several events for participants to attend that will encourage wildlife data gathering, including: 

 

  • Wild Grand Rapids – Exploring Nature in Your Backyard: 6-7 p.m. on April 24 at Calvin Church, 700 Ethel Ave. SE in Grand Rapids 
  • Frog Night: 8-9 p.m. on April 25 at Blandford Nature Center 
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: All day April 25-28 at the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute 
  • Twilight Hike: 8:30-10 p.m. on April 25 in the Upper Macatawa Natural Area  
  • Bird Walk: 8-10 a.m. on April 26 at Grand River Park in Ottawa County 
  • Family Nature Day & Drop-in Garlic Mustard Workshop: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on April 26 at Pigeon Creek Park in Ottawa County 
  • Bald Eagle Walk: 1-2:30 p.m., 2-3:30 p.m., 3-4:30 p.m. and 4-5:30 p.m. on April 26 at Grand Ravines in Ottawa County 
  • Sunday Stroll: 2-3:30 p.m. on April 27 at Hemlock Crossing