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Join the Global Celebration of Nature With City Nature Challenge
Every spring, cities worldwide come together for an exciting event known as the City Nature Challenge (CNC). This friendly competition encourages participants to observe and document the rich biodiversity in their local environments. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or simply someone who enjoys exploring, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, your community, and the world around you.
What is the City Nature Challenge?
The City Nature Challenge began in 2016 as a way for the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the California Academy of Sciences to showcase urban biodiversity through a spirited rivalry. By 2018, the event grew into a global phenomenon, engaging over 450 cities and resulting in more than two million observations of wildlife.
Why You Should Get involved This Spring
Urban areas are often overlooked when it comes to biodiversity. However, the CNC demonstrates that nature thrives even amidst concrete and steel. This event allows residents to see what species live in their neighborhoods, helping to foster a deeper connection with local wildlife and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Mark Your Calendars for CNC 2024
This year, the City Nature Challenge will take place from Friday, April 26th through Monday, May 6th. Participants will observe from April 26th to April 29th, with results announced on May 6th. It’s a great chance for families, schools, and community groups to engage with nature collectively!
How to Participate
There are several ways to get involved:
- Promote the Challenge: Help spread the word in your school, workplace, or community group.
- Make Observations: During the observation period, explore your neighborhood and upload photos of the plants and animals you find to the iNaturalist project.
- Host an Event: Organize a community event in a local green space where others can gather to discover and document their surroundings.
- Help Identify Species: If you can’t participate over the weekend, join in afterward to help identify observed species online.
Connect and Learn: Upcoming Local Events
As part of the City Nature Challenge, community engagement is vital. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is collaborating with local groups to host a variety of events:
- Heron Haven: A wetland sanctuary event on April 27.
- Grass Patch: Outdoor play spaces on select dates.
- The Durham Museum: Learn about Native American uses of nature from April 26-29.
Get Ready to Explore!
The City Nature Challenge is not just a competition; it's a celebration of community, education, and our natural surroundings. Families are encouraged to take part not just for fun but also to understand the ecological importance of local wildlife and advocate for conservation efforts. So grab your camera and get ready to observe!
If you’re interested in becoming a partner for this year’s events or need more information, please reach out to the Education Department at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. Let’s unite in recognizing and documenting the beauty that resides in our urban landscapes, creating lasting memories and fostering a legacy of conservation for future generations.
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