Fruithaven Nature Preserve

Community science is a collaborative effort between scientists and those of us who are curious, concerned, and motivated to make a difference in the natural world. The scientific work undertaken with the help of the general public is invaluable as these large, volunteer-based networks make it possible for scientists to accomplish projects that would otherwise be too expensive or time-consuming through traditional means.

Importantly, community science encourages public participation and brings science within reach for those who are not (or not-yet) scientists, and builds connections between people with shared interests of advancing knowledge, understanding, stewardship, and engagement with the natural world.

iNaturalist is a world-wide community science information sharing platform that helps us more fully understand the properties we protect through observations from people like you.