By Andi Anderson
A special pollinator-focused photo walk is giving students, staff, and community members an opportunity to explore nature while contributing to scientific research. The event encourages participants to document pollinators across campus and submit their observations through the iNaturalist platform.
Organized as part of a BioBlitz competition during Parks for Pollinators activities, the event combines education, outdoor exploration, and citizen science. Participants will work together to identify and record as many pollinators as possible, helping researchers and conservationists better understand local biodiversity.
The photo walk offers a simple and enjoyable way to learn about the important role pollinators play in agricultural production and natural ecosystems. Bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, and other pollinating insects are responsible for supporting plant reproduction and food production. Documenting these species can help improve knowledge about their distribution and population trends.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a smartphone or camera to capture images of pollinators found around campus. These photographs can then be uploaded to iNaturalist, a widely used platform that allows people to share nature observations and contribute to scientific databases.
One of the highlights of the event is the opportunity to learn directly from professional entomologists. Experts will guide participants during the walk, assist with insect identification, and provide tips for collecting high-quality observations. Their support makes the activity accessible to both experienced users and beginners.
Individuals who are unfamiliar with iNaturalist do not need prior experience. Expert assistance will be available throughout the event to help participants create observations, identify species, and understand how their contributions support research and conservation efforts.
The activity also promotes environmental awareness by encouraging people to spend time outdoors and observe the diversity of pollinators living in their local surroundings. Through hands-on participation, attendees can gain a greater appreciation for the insects that play a vital role in healthy ecosystems and agricultural productivity.
Beyond the friendly competition, the event serves as an educational experience that connects technology, science, and conservation. Participants not only help document pollinator populations but also contribute valuable information that can support future biodiversity studies.
The photo walk is scheduled for September 25, 2026. By combining citizen science, expert guidance, and community engagement, the event aims to inspire greater interest in pollinator conservation while supporting ongoing biodiversity research efforts.
Photo Credit: istock-kerem-hanci
Categories: Indiana, Education