Help identify local species at the annual Lake Merritt BioBlitz

The annual Lake Merritt BioBlitz encourages citizen scientists to document local biodiversity this Saturday from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. at the Lake Merritt Sailboat House.

Participants can photograph and record various organisms using the iNaturalist app as part of the observation phase of the 2025 City Nature Challenge. Katie Noonan, founder of the Rotary Nature Center Friends, stresses that expertise is not required to participate in the event. Volunteers will be available to assist with app setup and organism identification, and a microscope will help identify smaller creatures. This initiative not only promotes community engagement but also aids scientists in tracking biodiversity in an era of declining species. The event originated from a competition between Los Angeles and San Francisco and has expanded nationwide.

A wrap-up discussion at the Junior Center of Art and Science from 1-3 p. m. will review the documented findings and begin the identification process. Engaging in this effort allows Oakland residents to contribute to conservation and monitoring efforts crucial for local ecosystems.