Citizen Science: Incorporating iNaturalist Technology in Our Stewardship Program

Learn how to use the free iNaturalist app for a more immersive experience on walks, hikes and backyard discoveries!

 

Athol Bird and Nature Club president Dave Small teaches us about the life cycle, identification terminology, best equipment to bring (binoculars and camera) and the families of butterflies you can encounter here in the North Quabbin.

Athol Bird and Nature Club president Dave Small discusses the origins and life history of the Dragonflies and Damselflies followed by a look at the families encountered in Massachusetts with some hints on where to find them.

Dan Jaffe Wilder discusses what each and every one of us can do to help the pollinators. Which plants are the best to plant, what strategies can we follow to create robust pollinator habitat, and how do we do it all without losing the beauty and usability of the gardens we love?

Charley Eiseman introduces the major groups of leafminers, insect larvae that spend at least part of their lives feeding between the epidermal layers of leaves, and shares some new discoveries he has made in the course of putting together his guide. 

Russ Cohen introduces us to many known and hidden delicacies of the North Quabbin that can be used in soups, salads, cookies and more! Keys to the identification of reach species are provided, along with info on edible portion(s), season(s) of availability and preparation methods, as well as guidelines for safe and environmentally-responsible foraging.

Karro Frost leads us through a list of rare plant species found in the North Quabbin Region. She describes how to identify and report sightings of these fantastic rare plant species to the Natural Heritage Endangered Species Program (NHESP), which turns 30 years this year!

David Babik introduces us to the basics of identifying mushrooms and goes over the most common mushrooms you will find while exploring North Central Massachusetts.