Mark your calendars for the first weekend of August because the Chester, NH Conservation Commission is calling all nature enthusiasts, curious minds, and wildlife lovers to join our biodiversity BioBlitz! We'll be counting everything we see, and celebrating the rich biodiversity that surrounds us, but this isn't just about ticking off a list of species; it's also about creating a clearer picture of the connection between us and our environment. Click here to view the event flyer.

It's easy to get involved! All iNaturalist observations submitted within Chester on August 3rd and 4th will be automatically added to the BioBlitz project. Just have a few minutes free that weekend? Totally fine, just grab a picture or two on the go. Want to make a day of it? Bring some water and snacks and come hang out with us for the day! Whether it’s one species or one hundred, every observation increases our understanding of the natural world, and we welcome participants to engage with this project at your convenience.

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This Community Science Biodiversity BioBlitz is sponsored by the Chester, NH Conservation Commission in partnership with Moosewood Ecological.

Project Goal?

The goal of the BioBlitz is to create a biodiversity snapshot of Chester, NH by logging as many organisms on iNaturalist as we can over the course of two days. The more the merrier! Our first BioBlitz in June recorded 449 species!

Where does the project take place?

In-person events with staff ecologists from Moosewood Ecological LLC will take place Saturday, August 3rd staff ecologists from Moosewood Ecological, LLC will be at Wason Pond Beach, off Ash Road from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM to answer questions - swing by anytime!

Starting from Wason Pond Beach, there will be two guided nature walks taking place on Saturday, August 3rd:

Morning Walk: 9:00 - 11:00 AM

Afternoon Walk: 1:00 - 2:00 PM

Participation can also take place anywhere in Chester! All organisms recorded to iNaturalist from anywhere in town will contribute to the project. This includes your own backyard, or even critters found in the basement or gutter!

When can volunteers participate?

Anytime on the 3rd or 4th of August

Is training needed to participate?

We will be using iNaturalist to collect and record observations, so if you would like a quick tutorial or just want to brush up on your identification skills, feel free to stop by the beach at Wason Pond between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM for in-person assistance, or see the links above.

Who is this project ideal for?

Anyone! Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of community science, your presence is welcomed. Familiarity with a smartphone or digital cameras and computers is recommended. Children are encouraged to participate, and kid-friendly biodiversity bingo sheets will be available at the tent at Wason Pond.