Toronto Biodiversity Citizen Science Workshop

Join us to learn local wildlife this summer, funded by City of Toronto! Free tour guided by EcoSpark | Free lunch | Transport subsidized
About this Event

Biodiversity Citizen Science Workshop

Schedule:

10:00am – 10:15am → Introduction: Meet at the designated spot. Introduction to EcoSpark, citizen science and biodiversity. Safety reminders.

10:15am – 11:00am → Bird Survey: Binocularsdistributed. Introductory bird survey along park trails to collect data for research and conservation using eBird and Merlin Bird ID apps, with photo ID bird resource.

11:00am – 12:00pm → Plant & Pollinator Survey: Plant and pollinator survey along park trails using butterfly nets and Seek/iNaturalist apps for the iNaturalist database, to understand how resilient ecosystems support species.

12:00pm – 12:15pm → Town Council or Park Mapping: Town council activity with debate and discussion or community mapping using found materials.

12:15pm – 12:30pm → Digital Mapping and Wrap-up: Data summary, next steps and feedback.

12:30pm – 1:00pm → Free Lunch (Please let us know if you have any dietary restriction or allergy)

Equipment to bring: EcoSpark will provide scientific equipment (binoculars, butterfly nets, etc. as applicable) for the nature investigation.

1. (Optional) Technology: Tablets or devices are suggested with 1 per small group of 3-6 individuals but not mandatory. Participantsmay bring devices to photograph insects and plants as we conduct surveys at the site.
2. (Optional) Free : Consider creating an iNaturalist account on behalf of your group or encouraging individual registration, and join EcoSpark’s iNaturalist project page.
3. (Optional) Free : Participants may download the Seek app to assist with field ID. Nature images by your group can be submitted via the Seek app or manually, to help us collect useful ecological field data during your session.

Disclaimer: This event takes place outdoors and involves walking on uneven trail surfaces and exposure to weather, plants, and wildlife. Participants take part at their own risk. EcoSpark equipment must be used as instructed by staff. Photos may be taken during the event for EcoSpark's educational and promotional use. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. EcoSpark is not liable for injury, loss, or damage except where caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct.