What is a BioBlitz?

A BioBlitz is a community science survey where people come together to document as many species as possible at a specific location (or sometimes a few locations) within the same time period.

There are a lot of different ways to organize a BioBlitz, but in our case, we will be heading out in small groups to survey different locations around the Kellogg Creek Impoundment, and each group will be dedicated to documenting a certain category of observations (plants, tracks, birds, ect.). We will be using iNaturalist to document observations and then compile them into a larger project. You can find more information on using iNaturalist and group descriptions below.

What is the purpose of the Kellogg Creek BioBlitz?

The Kellogg Creek BioBlitz is an important part of our ongoing efforts to monitor conditions in the natural areas surrounding the Kellogg Creek Impoundment before the Kellogg Creek Restoration and Community Enhancement Project goes to construction in 2026-27! Right now, we want to collect as much data as we can about what plants and animals are currently using this space, and you can help! The Kellogg Creek Bioblitz is also an awesome opportunity to get outside and enjoy some beautiful (and often-overlooked) natural areas near downtown Milwaukie! Even though we know that the habitat in the Kellogg Impoundment is pretty degraded, it’s still being used by lots of birds and other wildlife, as well as plenty of native and invasive plant species. With the Kellogg Creek Restoration and Community Enhancement Project, we aim to make these natural areas into better, healthier habitat for wildlife and humans to enjoy.

How are we documenting observations?

Volunteers will be documenting their findings using the free iNaturalist app. This app allows you to take pictures and record sounds and then submit them as observations. Submissions are reviewed by volunteers at iNaturalist and then collected into one big project. We have provided some resources below that show how to submit observations on the app, and we will go over it again in person on the day-of. Volunteer group leaders are well trained in using iNaturalist and will be able to help submit data. Keep in mind that you don’t need to have the iNaturalist app to participate! We will also need people in groups that are focused on finding observations, making identifications, and taking photos.

Who can participate?

The Kellogg Creek BioBlitz is open to everyone! Minors under the age of 16 need to be accompanied by an adult. Please review each groups description and pick the group that best fits your interests and ability.

How do I register?

You can register on our website on the “Bioblitz Registration” page with can be found here. Fill out the volunteer registration form and waiver. Be sure to check out the descriptions of the different focus groups beforehand to get an idea of what group you would like to sign up for. If you have any questions about registering for the Bioblitz, you can email Peyton at peyton@ncwatersheds.org.

iNaturalist resources

This video will take you through the basics of documenting an observation on iNaturalist.

This page on the iNaturalist website may also be helpful to you if you are just getting started. It goes over what observations are, how to make them using different mobile devices or web browsers, and how to explore observations in your area.