The City Nature Challenge (CNC) is an annual four-day global bioblitz and competition between cities to document wildlife. It is a great way to observe and connect with nature and engage in citizen science.

Support our local Rock River Valley team hosted by Severson Dells Nature Center to compete against the world. Participation is free.

All you have to do is get outside and take and upload a photo of plants, animals and fungi on the iNaturalist app between April 28 and May 1. 

iNaturalist is a free and easy-to-use app and website that connects researchers to data collected by you.

More information including how to use iNaturalist.

During the challenge, you're invited to meet up to explore our local parks to get started. Full list of guided hikes and events to choose from.

Stop by the East Lagoon to meet up with NIU Outdoor Adventures staff.

3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 30
NIU East Lagoon

CNC is organized by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and California Academy of Sciences.