The EUREKA! McConnell Science Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring a passion and respect for math and science in our communities! Through hands-on science exploration and outdoor adventure education, we seek to build equity in access to science learning as we advance our mission to inspire the next generation of brilliant scientists, environmental stewards, and innovators!
Description
Get better acquainted with the insects (and other animals and plants) that share our world and become a participant in a global citizen science community.
In this presentation, Dr. Alward will introduce the iNaturalist app that has been bringing together citizen naturalists of all ages, international biology experts, and computer-aided identification tools for nearly two decades. He will also provide tips for recording observations that will contribute to scientific knowledge of changing biodiversity from Grand Junction to the globe. Following the presentation, we will move outdoors to practice making observations of insects, and other organisms, along the river’s edge.
More Information:
iNaturalist is a free app available for both Android and iPhones. No experience is required. However, participants should download the app (see QR code), create an iNaturalist account, and grant permission for the app to access both your camera and GPS functions before the presentation. Recommendations for settings will be made during the presentation.
About Richard:
Richard Alward has a Ph.D. in Ecology with interests in both plants and insects. He has been celebrating and studying flora and fauna around the world since eating his first butterfly at the age of three.

Date & Time
Sat, Apr 11, 2026 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM