The Blue Ridge Parkway will host six Citizen Science Bioblitzes on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 10:00 am to noon and one on Sunday, October 4, 2026 from 10:00 am to noon, using the iNaturalist app to document biodiversity as part of National Public Lands Day. Volunteers will explore various Parkway locations to record observations of plants, animals, and fungi, contributing valuable data to help park staff understand species distribution and ecological recovery following Hurricane Helene.

Saturday September 26th BioBlitz Locations

1. Peaks of Otter Visitor Center- Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 85.6
2. Museum of North Carolina Minerals -Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 331
3. Craggy Gardens Visitor Center - Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 364
4.  Asheville Visitor Center - Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 384
5. Mt. Pisgah (Buck Springs Lodge Trailhead)- Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 407.7
6. Waterrock Knob Visitor Center - Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 451.2 

Sunday October 4th BioBlitz Location

1. Moses Cone Estate - Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 294

The day will begin with a brief site orientation, followed by completion of the Volunteer Service Agreement. Volunteers are strongly encouraged to download the iNaturalist app prior to arrival, as cellular service may be limited in some areas. Most participants will use their smartphones to photograph and submit observations; however, volunteers may also use a digital camera and upload their findings to the iNaturalist website from home.

The information collected during the Bioblitz will help the Blue Ridge Parkway identify which species are present in the park and where they are located, inform future resource management decisions, and provide insight into how the landscape is recovering from Hurricane Helene. Whether you're an experienced naturalist or a first-time participant, your contributions will play a meaningful role in protecting and understanding this treasured landscape. Volunteers should bring a smartphone or tablet with the iNaturalist app installed, along with water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing. All are welcome to join this exciting day of discovery and stewardship.