The City of Bloomington is conducting an insect inventory at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve

BLOOMINGTON – The City of Bloomington is conducting an insect inventory at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve.

If you’re passionate about nature and curious about the tiny creatures inhabiting our world, this project is for you. The person who records the most unique insects by September 30 will win a prize.

Join the fascinating world of insects and become a vital contributor to the iNaturalist Insect Inventory Project. If you are passionate about nature and curious about the tiny creatures inhabiting our world, this project is for you.

As a volunteer for the iNaturalist Insect Inventory Project, you’ll embark on an exciting journey to document the incredible diversity of insects in the local area. Whether you’re an amateur entomologist, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, you have a role in this project.

By participating, you’ll have the opportunity to:

Explore Nature: Venture into parks, forests, gardens, and even your backyard to discover the variety of insect life around you. Every observation you make contributes to our understanding of insect populations and their habitats.

Learn and Educate: Expand your knowledge of entomology as you identify different species of insects. Share your discoveries with others, fostering a greater appreciation for the often-overlooked creatures that play essential roles in ecosystems worldwide.

Contribute to Science: Your observations serve as valuable data for scientists and researchers studying insect populations and biodiversity. Your efforts help us track changes in insect populations over time and inform conservation efforts to protect these vital organisms.

Connect with a Community: Join a vibrant community of fellow nature enthusiasts, scientists, and experts who share your passion for insects and the natural world. Collaborate with others, exchange knowledge, and support one another in your journey to document and protect insect diversity.

Steps to get involved:

  • Download iNaturalist app
  • Sign in/make an account
  • Join “COB Griffy Lake Insect Inventory” project
  • Start photographing insects
  • Upload 50 unique species to be listed as contributors in the final report. The top contributor wins an insect pinning kit, and the best photo will be showcased at Bugfest.

Together, volunteers can build a comprehensive inventory of insects that will inspire future generations to appreciate and protect Griffy Lake’s remarkable diversity of life.