FAQs

Can I participate if I show up the day of?

Absolutely! However, you will still need to complete steps 1-3 on our "How to Participate" page so that you are familiar with the Ecoblitz event, have signed all necessary forms, and are eligible to win schwag!

Can my dog(s) participate in the Ecoblitz?

Unfortunately, we love seeing dogs outdoors, Ecoblitzes are not dog-friendly events. Most importantly, dogs, whether leashed or unleashed, are likely to scare away much of the biodiversity that the Ecoblitz is intended to document.

What if I show up at a different time than I indicated in the sign-up survey?

Not a problem! You can show up anytime. We asked for your anticipated time to assist us in planning based on the number of people expected

Do my parents have to be there if I am a minor (under 18 years age)?

No, but use your discretion in participating without your parents! Much of the time you will be exploring the Park independently, so you need to be comfortable being outdoors and unsupervised. Please have this conversation with your parents beforehand, and they will need to sign the TMCC Voluntary Activity form.

Can I bring my children?

Absolutely, and we encourage family participation! We just ask that you be able to supervise them during the Ecoblitz for everyone's safety.

What precautions are being taken for CoVid-19?

Safety is first and foremost, and that includes CoVid-19 precautions. Research indicates that the risk from contracting CoVid-19 in outdoor settings is very low, given the air circulation. However, the State mandates that we are all required to practice include:

• Maintain physical distance from people who are not in your household; a minimum of 6ft distance when masked, and a minimum of 10ft distance when eating

• Masks MUST be worn anytime you are around people who are not in your household

All participants are required to follow these CoVid-19 restrictions, and will not be able to participate unless they bring their own mask (masks will not be provided). This is for your safety, but the safety of our Ecoblitz team as well.

Should I bring gloves or other equipment to handle animals?

No. We are only taking photographs using iNaturalist, and we do not want to stress or harm the wildlife in any way. Handling wildlife can be stressful and even harmful to the animal, and our work today is in the spirit of helping protect these animals.

I don't have transportation, how can I get there?

There are many options for getting to the Park without a car! The RTC has a bus stops along Route 7 (Virginia St. @ Reno Sports Complex and Virginia St. @ Planetarium). You can also ride your bike (many places to lock it up), carpool with a friend who has a car, or consider walking if you live nearby.

I can only join for an hour, is that okay?

Very okay, actually! There is no limit to how much time you need to participate during the Ecoblitz. Most people spend 2-4 hours, or even split their time between multiple shifts, but we are thankful for any time you can contribute.

I have a physical disability and/or need to stay near paved/groomed trails and restrooms. Can I still participate?

Absolutely! We will be surveying regions within the Park, and the Pond/Arboretum region has paved and groomed trails that are wide and accommodate wheelchair users and strollers. These areas also offer much shade and proximity to restrooms and parking. You can indicate your need/preference for surveying this region in the Ecoblitz Registration form.

Is there cell phone reception in the Park?

Yes! You may have reduced coverage if in a canyon area, but the Park is within range of multiple cell phone towers.

Will the Ecoblitz still happen if there is inclement weather such as a snowstorm or rain?

Our plan is for the Ecoblitz to happen regardless of weather, but we realize that during extreme weather the Ecoblitz will need to be postponed. If inclement weather is predicted as we approach the date, we will provide updates of any changes to the event on the homepage.