This workshop will provide an overview of how to use iNaturalist and navigate the app, explore data, find projects that are of interest, and learn tips and tricks for making observations and taking effective photographs. Participants will learn how to apply it to projects such as BioBlitzes, natural resource inventories, school ecology studies, and initiatives like the NH Butterfly Monitoring Network. Presented by Haley Andreozzi of UNH Cooperative Extension and hosted by Green Mountain Conservation Group, Chocorua Lake Conservancy, Appalachian Mountain Club, the Tamworth Conservation Commission, and Cook Memorial Library. This program will be held at Cook Memorial Library in Tamworth May 22 from 1- 3 p.m. and is open to the public. Stick around afterward for a showing of the Pollinators & Plants crankie at 3:30 p.m.

Participatory science – also known as citizen science or community science – involves the public in scientific research, which makes it possible for anyone to contribute to our understanding of wildlife, plants and biodiversity in our communities and across the globe. iNaturalist is an online social network of people sharing biodiversity information to help each other learn about nature and contribute to scientific datasets. It is used to record observations of wild living organisms, get help with identifications, collaborate with others to collect information for a common purpose, or access the data collected by other users. iNaturalist apps can be downloaded to Apple and Android devices to make observations and contribute to citizen science projects like the NH Butterfly Monitoring Network, Pollinators Interactions on Plants, community- or property-specific natural resource inventories such as a BioBlitz, high school ecology projects, and much more. Every observation on iNaturalist contributes to biodiversity science, from rare wildlife sightings to spotting common weeds in your backyard. Workshop presenter Haley Andreozzi is a wildlife biologist and educator who works to support informed decision-making around wildlife and habitat conservation. In her role as the Wildlife Conservation State Specialist with UNH Cooperative Extension, Haley works with volunteers, landowners, natural resources professionals, and communities to enhance, restore, and conserve wildlife and habitats throughout New Hampshire. She provides technical assistance for outreach, participatory science, and stewardship projects related to New Hampshire’s wildlife species and their habitats, including bats, butterflies, New England cottontail rabbits, and other species of greatest conservation need.