Wild Pursuit invites community members to explore Montana’s parks, forests, trails, and river corridors while contributing observations to iNaturalist. The library acts as the hub that provides instructions, tools, and encouragement while the exploration happens out in the community whenever participants choose.

Set up a simple information station that helps people get started with iNaturalist. Participants can learn how to set up the app, take good nature photos, and see suggestions for nearby public lands they can explore.

Library staff create a public iNaturalist project. Once this project is set up, it runs on its own and automatically gathers observations made within your chosen boundaries.

Participants explore whenever it works for them. They visit parks, trails, and other public lands or simply observe nature in their backyard. Using the iNaturalist app, they photograph plants, animals, fungi, insects, and more. Their observations automatically support real community science.

Keep the challenge visible through simple displays and weekly updates. These activities maintain energy around the challenge without requiring scheduled programs.

If you want to boost participation without planning full programs, small incentives can motivate people while keeping the challenge informal and self-directed.

The challenge can run for a short period or all year long. Choose a timeline that works for your community and library capacity.