Want to contribute to marine conservation, but don’t know where to start? Take part in a scavenger hunt for science! Starting on Worldwide Marine Protected Areas Day on August 1st, we invite you to participate in a BioBlitz across Oregon’s five marine reserves and marine protected areas. From the rugged cliffs of Cape Falcon in the north to the dramatic islands of Redfish Rocks in the south, Oregon’s five marine reserves are areas dedicated to conservation and scientific research. These “no-take” zones serve as sanctuaries for marine life and you are invited to explore and document the creatures that call these special places home using your phone’s camera. Use the iNaturalist app to record the plants and animals you find, from the tiniest tidepool snail to the majestic seabirds soaring above, to help gain a deeper understanding of these ecosystems and how to best protect them for the future. No scientific experience is required, just a smart phone, the iNaturalist app, curiosity, and a willingness to explore! 

Join the BioBlitz on iNaturalist here, visit Oregon’s marine reserves or adjacent marine protected areas, upload pictures of the organisms you see! Remember to practice good tidepool etiquette and ocean safety.

If you would like the chance to win a prize for participating in the Oregon Marine Reserves & MPAs BioBlitz, please join the project on iNaturalist and fill out this form.

New to iNaturalist? Watch the BioBlitz information session recording here.