Day of Logistics

Getting There

What To Expect During The Ecoblitz

Where do I go once I arrive?

Our main registration site will be at the Reno Sports Complex parking lot (2975 N. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89506). Our check-in table will be at the far (west) end of the parking lot. Here, we will have you sign the TMCC Voluntary Activity form, verify you are connected to our iNaturalist project page, and provide you with a map of the survey areas. If you, or someone you arrive with, has not yet registered, then this can be completed once you arrive. However, before you can begin, you will need to complete the required registration process. During check in, don't forget to bring your mask! And, while we love dogs, the Ecoblitz is not a dog-friendly event, so please leave your dog(s) at home during the Ecoblitz.

If you indicate any limitations when you complete the Ecoblitz Registration form, then we will provide directions to our second registration site, located at the Chinese Pagoda Pavilion on San Rafael Drive (1595 N. Sierra St., Reno, NV 89503), at the south entrance to the Park. From here, you will be directed to the May Arboretum and Herman's pond area. This Ecoblitz survey area may be best for those with small children/strollers or wheelchair users because the walkways are wide/groomed/paved, and are the closest in proximity to restrooms and parking.

Once you check in at either location, we will provide you with a map of the Ecoblitz boundary, and from here we can direct you to a specific area of the Park to begin documenting your observations of plants, animals, and fungi. Depending on your efforts, you may be able to survey in more than one area; most areas are within walking distance.

1. • You can view the project boundary in the real-time map in iNaturalist, to ensure you are within the project boundary. To view the project boundary map, visit the "Explore" link within the app, and in the search bar type "Rancho San Rafael Regional Park Ecoblitz" and during typing, a drop-down menu will appear. Select the "Find projects named..." link and the Ecoblitz project boundary map will appear.

We expect all to follow CoVid-19 safety and that includes a) wearing a mask when in proximity to others not from your household, and b) keeping a safe physical distance from others (6ft minimum while wearing a mask, and 10ft minimum when eating). This is not only to ensure your safety, but the safety of our Ecoblitz team and others, especially those with compromised immune systems.

How do I use iNaturalist to make observations?

Once you arrive at your designated region, you will begin documenting all plant, animal, and fungi you observe using the iNaturalist app on your phone. Your observation can include photographs or audio recordings. Audio recordings are especially useful for birds and amphibians, while photographs are ideal for plants, reptiles, mammals, fungi, and other organisms where you can get close enough to take a picture. For most species, multiple photographs are most useful for other iNaturalist users to help identify your species. For example, plants often require photographs of the flower, leaves, and overall plant to positively identify the species. Make sure your photos are high quality including being in focus and the sunlight is behind you when taking the photo. Many of the iNaturalist tutorials have tips on getting quality photos, so that your observation can be used. Once you make an observation, you will add it to the "Ecoblitz: Rancho San Rafael Regional Park" project folder before you hit the "submit" button. This will ensure your observations are included in our Ecoblitz.

The iNaturalist community is built upon citizen scientists and expert biologists helping each other; you do not need to worry about identifying what you see, since the biologists can use your photos to identify the species you observe. That is why the most important part of your observation is to take quality photos (see iNaturalist training videos for tips).

Don't forget to link each of your observations to our project page at the bottom of the observation page, so that we can document your species.

How do I "Ecoblitz"?

The best way to see the most species is to go slow; the faster you walk, the less you will see, especially the smaller organisms. When walking in the region, we encourage you to stay away from the walking paths and meander throughout the entire region. This is where you will see the most species, and capture the Park's hidden biodiversity! And, this is where you will be the most relaxed and can enjoy your time in nature! Do be thorough in your search efforts, but do not be destructive or disruptive. For instance, turning over pieces of wood or rocks can be excellent ways to find species that prefer dark, humid, and cool environments. But, care must be taken that the objects are returned to their original positions and with minimal damage to the habitat. Also, walking off of trails is advised, but do be cautious as to where you place your hands and feet. There are occasionally rattlesnakes, but they are trying to avoid you as much as you are trying to avoid them. Simply walk away from any situations that make you uncomfortable, and let someone from the Ecoblitz team know if you do encounter a rattlesnake so that we can make sure we all keep our distance (rattlesnakes included).

What should I Bring?

• Essentials: mask, cell phone (fully charged) with the iNaturalist app installed (don't forget your login), water/electrolytes (two bottles), snacks, sun protection, backpack

  • Please use the Leave No Trace outdoor ethics which includes packing out all trash

• Clothing: hat, sunglasses, close-toed shoes, light jacket or t-shirt if you are participating in the morning or evening hours

  • Recommended: lightweight long-sleeved shirt and pants to minimize sun exposure and stay cool

• Optional: binoculars, lenses for your phone camera, identification books, gloves to protect your hands, mirror to reflect light into rock crevices (to spy on hiding animals)

• Your friends and family (dogs not included)... The more humans the merrier, and Ecoblitz events are much more fun in the company of others! Unfortunately, dogs cannot participate in the Ecoblitz, as their presence will scare away many of the species we are hoping to document.