BYOB
Be Your Own Botanist is a relaxed and community friendly program that pairs an indoor mini lecture with an outdoor guided biodiversity walk. Participants learn about local conservation issues and use iNaturalist to document real species observations that contribute to community science.
Program Overview
This event is designed for adults and older teens and works especially well as an after hours program or a collaboration with environmental groups. The program begins indoors with a short lecture from a guest expert followed by an outdoor guided walk focused on observing and recording species using iNaturalist.
Audience
Adults and older teens. Ideal for community groups, environmental clubs, and after hours library programming.
Program Length
30 to 45 minutes Guided outdoor walk
10 to 15 minutes Uploading observations and discussion
Preparation Checklist
Select an indoor space for the lecture and a safe outdoor route for the walk
Ensure smartphones or tablets have the iNaturalist app installed
Optional Provide field guides, clipboards, or flashlights for evening walks
Plan how participants will return indoors if needed to upload observations afterward
Running the Program Step-by-Step
Welcome Guests and Introduce the Speaker
Begin by welcoming participants and introducing your partnering organization or guest naturalist. Explain the flow and goals of the evening.
Indoor Lecture (20 to 30 minutes)
The speaker presents on a local biodiversity theme such as invasive species, native pollinators, habitat health, or stewardship practices. Encourage questions and discussion.
Guided Outdoor Walk (30 to 45 minutes)
Lead participants outside to explore nearby natural spaces. The guide highlights species, ecological relationships, and conservation challenges.
Identify and Document Species with iNaturalist
Participants use iNaturalist to photograph and record species encountered during the walk. Offer support for newcomers and encourage close observation.
Upload Observations and Group Discussion (10 to 15 minutes)
Return indoors if needed to upload findings. Discuss patterns noticed, interesting species, and how their contributions support local conservation efforts.
Understand invasive species and native pollinator roles
Use iNaturalist to contribute to community science
Strengthen observational and ecological literacy skills
Build connections between community spaces and environmental health
Accessibility Options
Provide pre recorded species examples for participants with mobility limitations
Offer additional support to participants unfamiliar with iNaturalist
Optional Program Extensions
Partner on a volunteer conservation day with local organizations
Create a library hosted iNaturalist project for ongoing biodiversity monitoring
