The Greater Erie City Nature Challenge is back for its third year, taking place from April 26 – 29, 2024 throughout Erie County.  This 4-day international community science event challenges us to explore the biodiversity around us.

Everyone is welcome; all you need to do is download the free iNaturalist app on your phone or tablet, create an account and start exploring! 

By making observations in the app during this four-day event, you will be contributing to a global wildlife database that scientists can use to inform their research.

Scientists from around the world use the data collected during the City Nature Challenge for various research projects, such as evaluating migration patterns, seasonal fluctuations in biodiversity and more.

Started in 2016 by the California Academy of Sciences and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, the City Nature Challenge has grown into an international event to discover and document plants and wildlife in cities across the globe.

The goal is to document and identify as many species of plants and wildlife as possible during this 4-day period.

You can do observations from your backyard, explore the Bayfront, visit a park, or come to Asbury Woods!

“Asbury Woods is excited to organize our region’s third year of participation in the City Nature Challenge.  We encourage residents across Erie County to get outside, observe nature, and contribute to this massive scientific database.  It can be as simple as documenting the plants and wildlife in your own backyard, visiting a local park, or joining one of the organized walks. Last year we collected over 2,000 observations with 488 species!” said Jennifer Farrar, Executive Director at Asbury Woods.

To learn more about the Challenge and related events, visit the Asbury Woods’ Greater Erie City Nature Challenge webpage.

Visit the Asbury Woods Environmental Center website for more information on programs, initiatives, upcoming events and how you can get involved.

Other PA Areas Participating

These other areas in Pennsylvania are also participating in the City Nature Challenge:  Pittsburgh; Southcentral PA; Susquehanna County; Northeast PA; Bethlehem; and the Greater Philadelphia Area.

[Posted: April 18, 2024]

4/22/2024