On Your Own Opportunities

iNaturalist Projects

animal tracks in mud with leaf

iNaturalist is a great way to explore wildlife diversity in Stark Parks. Several collection projects have been set up at various parks and you are invited to join them.

Any observations made will automatically be added to a project.  You can also see other observations and the wildlife that have been in the park area.

To get started with iNaturalist visit this link or or download free the iNaturalist app.

Bioblitz

Bee Monitoring

bee on flowerUsing the iNaturalist app, you can help record bee sightings in several parks where restoration efforts have included prairie areas at Fry Family Park, Quail Hollow Park, and Tam O’Shanter Park.  It is easy-beesy!  Spot a bee on a plant or somewhere else in the park and take a picture and then upload to iNaturalist.

You don’t necessarily have to identify the bees, iNaturalist will suggest the species and we will help confirm after submission.

FrogWatch USA

Frog Watch USA logo with frog printFrogWatch USA is an AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) citizen science program that provides individuals, groups, and families opportunities to learn about wetlands in their communities and local parks by reporting frogs and toad calls they hear.  Volunteers should plan on attending a two hour training and passing a written and audio test to receive certification.  Classes are typically held in early spring with data being accepted between Feb. 1 and Aug. 31.