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 independently, whenever participants choose.

Wild Pursuit is a self-paced, community-powered nature challenge that supports real biodiversity research. Participants learn how to get started with iNaturalist, receive simple instructions for exploration, and choose local public lands or backyard habitats to observe. 

Learn to use iNaturalist to document biodiversity independently

Develop awareness of local species in parks, trails, and backyards

Explore nature at one’s own pace while supporting community science

Observe seasonal patterns through repeated outdoor visits

All ages. Works well for families, teens, adults, hikers, casual walkers, and anyone comfortable using mobile devices outdoors.

Participants review the information station, set up iNaturalist, scan the app QR code, and learn basic photography tips.

Participants visit parks, trails, or backyards to observe plants, animals, insects, and fungi at their own pace.

Visitors return to the library to view updated displays, track project highlights, and learn from weekly Cool Finds or seasonal species.