Nature Observation

Nature observation volunteers provide useful resources to our educators to better understand what wildlife is on our property and help tailor our programs. Prescott Farm educators spend time in local schools through our Naturalist in the Classroom program and teaching Community Connection Programs throughout the year, impacting children, families, and adults through nature-based education. Nature Observation volunteers spend time on our property and use the iNaturalist app to record their observations of the flora and fauna.

Commitment: At least 1x per month

• Season: Year-round
• Schedule:Flexible, we will work with your schedule

Tasks & Responsibilities

• Utilize your smartphone if you have one!
  • iNaturalist app: join a community of citizen scientists and help ID plants and animals
• Walk a trail and fill out the phenology checklist to the best of your ability
• Write, photograph, draw or make any other additional notations about your observations

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn how to confidently ID plants and animals
• Ability to carefully observe natural processes
• Ability to walk on uneven surfaces

Training: Attend an orientation with the Volunteer Coordinator

Safety: Team members are expected to bring and wear appropriate clothing for the conditions and activities they will be doing; this includes closed-toed shoes, gloves, bug repellent, and sunscreen.When observing nature, it is important not to disturb plants or animals so we do not alter the natural cycles we are recording.

Special Projects: Analyzing data, photographing phenological cycles, plant mapping projects, and developing interpretive signage.