iNaturalist is an online citizen-science platform that helps identify the wildlife around you while generating data for science and conservation. iNaturalist’s Boston Area City Nature Challenge (CNC), is part of a worldwide collaborative bioblitz in cities across the world to document and identify as much wildlife as possible.
We invite you to participate in the Boston area CNC from April 25-28. Join Ann Schunior on a zoom session on April 17 to learn how to use iNaturalist. Then join Suzanne Mrozak on April 26 at Houghton’s Pond to make observations of wildlife and become part of one of the largest community science events in the world. Help us better understand – and therefore, take care of – nature that lives in and around urban areas.
The two events are independent. You can sign up for either or both.
Not familiar with the iNaturalist app? Don’t worry! We understand that some might be new to the app, which is why we’re offering a LIVE training session before the walk. During this training, Ann will guide participants through the app’s features, showing how to easily upload observations, identify
We ask that you download the iNaturalist app prior to the zoom call to help follow along!
A zoom call link for the April 17th iNaturalist app LIVE training session will be sent with 48 hours of signup!
Make sure you check out the Boston Area City Nature Challenge here: Boston CNC
Sign up for the Houghton’s Pond City Nature Challenge walk with Suzanne Mrozak here.
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Beginners’ Hike with Bruce
Event Details:
– When: Saturday, April 26th 10:00 am-12:00 pm (CHANGES MADE! WAS PREVIOUSLY APRIL 19TH)
– Meeting Point: Playground at Houghton’s Pond
– Leaders: Bruce Dezube
– Sign-Up: Guests must sign up in advance
Hike Description:
Join Bruce for a relaxing and scenic beginners’ hike through the beautiful Blue Hills Reservation. This hiking event is perfect for those new to hiking, offering a gentle pace suitable for novices. The hike covers a variety of terrain, including some gravel and rocky paths, allowing you to experience the diverse natural habitats of the Blue Hills without the challenge of a strenuous hike. Don’t miss out on this chance to enjoy a peaceful morning in nature.
– Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, so please bring plenty of water.
– Snacks: Pack some light snacks to keep your energy up.
– Clothing: Wear moisture-wicking clothing to stay comfortable.
– No Dogs: To maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all hikers, pets are not allowed on this hike.
– Commitment: Please do not sign up unless you are certain you can attend, as spaces are limited.
– Pace and Duration: The hike is designed to be a leisurely walk, not a race. Expect to spend about 2 hours exploring the trails with plenty of time to appreciate the scenery.We look forward to seeing you on the trail!
Join Mardi and the Friends of the Blue Hills for a screening of the award-winning 11-minute documentary “Mardi and the Whites” at the Milton Library on May 8th at 7 PM. Following the screening, Mardi will offer remarks, and there will be an opportunity for discussion.
“Mardi & the Whites” is a peek into Mardi’s relationship with the White Mountains, the great outdoors, and the community that surrounds them; Above all, it’s a celebration of Black liberation in the wild.
Mardi Fuller advocates for racial equity through writing, speaking and community building. Mardi is a lover of nature and her mission is to support communities of color to self-determine in outdoor recreation and in the conservation movement. A lifelong backcountry adventurer, in January 2021 she became the first known Black person to hike all 48 of New Hampshire’s high peaks in winter. She is a contributing writer to Outside magazine, SKI magazine, NRDC, Melanin Basecamp and more. She lives in Boston and works as a freelance writer, marketing expert and DEI consultant. She organizes hike, ski and climb events centering Black people and communities of color and serves as a board member of the Appalachian Mountain Club.
Check the website below for information!
Website: https://www.paulachampagne.com/mardiandthewhites
Join David Saturday May 17th for a Hike followed by a yoga session in the park! We will meet David at Fishermans Beach at 9:00 am!
Starting your day with a hike in nature allows you to connect with the outdoors, breathing in fresh air while invigorating your body. Afterward, practicing yoga helps you stretch and relax, grounding your mind and body for a peaceful and focused day ahead. After a hike at beautiful Ponkapoag Pond, your yoga teacher, Dave Demeo will guide you through a vinyasa-style yoga class and some breath work. Dave, a resident of Milton, considers the Blue Hills to be his second home, and is excited to help turn the natural beauty of the Blue Hills into your own personal outdoor studio. Dave uses his history of athletics and traumatic injury to inform his practice as well as teaching and can’t wait to share space with people of all levels and walks of life. Any body and every person is welcome! No experience necessary! We can’t wait to see you!
Please bring your own yoga mat or let us know if you need one provided on the sign in.
May 31st will be our make up day if heavy rain is forecasted.
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Please join Friends of the Blue Hills on Saturday, June 14 to celebrate the life of Loretta Fillios with a hike in her memory.
[button link="https://friendsofthebluehills.org/?form=FUNUCKZTKVH" type="big" newwindow="yes"] Please click here to make a donation in Loretta’s memory.[/button]
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Whether you choose one or both hikes, it’s the perfect way to connect with nature and experience the magic of the solstice from dawn to dusk. But we Challenge you to do both!
Celebrate the summer solstice with two unforgettable hikes, each marking a beautiful moment of the day. Start with a sunrise hike to witness the first light of the longest day, filling the air with peace and new beginnings. Later, return for a sunset hike as the sun sets in a vibrant display, offering a peaceful end to your adventure.
What to wear: Be prepared for cooler morning temperatures with layers that can easily be adjusted as the day warms. A moisture-wicking base layer, lightweight jacket, and sturdy hiking boots are a must for both comfort and support. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for the sunset hike.
And bring water! Staying hydrated is key to making the most of your day, so pack enough to keep you refreshed throughout both hikes.