The warmer spring conditions and rapid snowmelt are causing native wildflowers to bloom earlier, leading to a shift in plant life cycles within the ecosystem. This change impacts pollinators, insects, and foraging birds and wildlife that rely on plant materials for food.
You are invited to participate in a guided community science walk to collect essential data on the changing bloom times. No prior experience in botany is required for this activity. The meeting point is at the Blacktail Butte parking lot in Grand Teton National Park, located off HWY 89/191 just north of Moose Junction. Participants should come prepared for a short hike, wearing closed-toed shoes and bringing water and bear spray. Notebooks, pens, field guides, and light snacks will be provided for the participants. The walk will be an easy two-mile roundtrip with several stops along the way.
To RSVP for the event, you can email Charlotte Cadow, the Community Science Specialist. Learn more about this community science effort by visiting the Wildflower Watch page on the website.
Wildflower Watch events are scheduled for the following dates and times:
– Wednesday, April 17, 1-3 p.m.
– Wednesday, April 24, 1-3 p.m.
– Wednesday, May 1, 1-3 p.m.
– Wednesday, May 8, 9–11 a.m.
– Wednesday, May 15, 9–11 a.m.
– Wednesday, May 29, 9–11 a.m.
– Wednesday, June 5, 9–11 a.m.
– Wednesday, June 12, 9–11 a.m.
– Wednesday, June 19, 9–11 a.m.
– Wednesday, June 26, 9–11 a.m.
If you enjoy participating in community science activities, you can also join the Berry Blitz guided walks, held on Tuesdays from July 2 to September 24. During these walks, you will document the ripening and abundance of berries to help scientists understand how the earlier bloom times may be impacting important food sources for bears, birds, and other wildlife.