A bioblitz is a short, intensive survey in which scientists, naturalists, and community volunteers work together over a set period to document as many species of plants and wildlife as possible in a defined area. It is both a scientific effort to build a snapshot of local biodiversity and a public event that invites people to learn from experts, practice species identification, and contribute observations through tools like iNaturalist and other recording platforms.

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Bioblitzes are important because they generate baseline species inventories that land managers often lack, help locate rare species or sensitive habitats, and strengthen public support for conservation through hands-on engagement. Data from these events have been used to guide management plans, such as focusing future field surveys, prioritizing areas for protection, establishing wildlife corridors, and informing restoration strategies on lands and high‑biodiversity regions.

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Join Us: Indian River County BioBlitz

Join IRNA’s Indian River County BioBlitz, part of the Indian River Biodiversity Initiative, taking place April 19–25, 2026. This week-long community science event invites students, families, educators, professionals, and community members to document local plants and wildlife throughout Indian River County using iNaturalist.

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You can participate:

• For as little as 15 minutes in one day, or across the entire week

• Individually or with others, including families, HOAs, homeschool groups, Scouts, or professional teams

  • Feel free to arrange your own outing or join one of our scheduled hikes [link or list]

• From your backyard, neighborhood, local preserve, Lagoon shoreline, or ocean beach

• As a quick observation outing or a longer outdoor exploration or project-based activity

Every observation helps build a better understanding of Indian River County’s unique biodiversity—and you can be part of it.

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To learn more about this project or to volunteer, please email Missy@IndianRiverNA.com.

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How to Participate in the Indian River County BioBlitz

1. Download the iNaturalist app
   Get iNaturalist for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

2. Create an account
   Sign up using your email or an existing login.

3. Join the project
   In the app, search for and join the project “Indian River County BioBlitz”

4. Start observing during the week of April 19-25!
   Take photos of the plants and animals you encounter—from ants to alligators and lichens to lizards. iNaturalist will help identify your observations and upload them automatically.

5. Share your experience
   Let us know you participated by tagging us on social media using
   #IRNA #IRNABioBlitz #IndianRiverCounty