Adventure for Conservation:
Volunteer Field Day in Modoc National Wildlife Refuge
On Friday, June 13, 2025, join the California Institute for Biodiversity and Adventure Scientists for a Volunteer Field Day in the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge!
The Problem:
California is one of the world’s 36 biodiversity hotspots, home to countless unique species found nowhere else. However, climate change, wildfires, and habitat loss are rapidly reshaping the landscape. Conservationists lack the critical data needed to protect these ecosystems, without detailed records of plant, fungi, and animal life.
The Solution:
That’s where you come in! On this field day, you’ll embark on an exciting adventure, exploring the landscapes within California to collect soil samples and document biodiversity. Your efforts will contribute to groundbreaking research, helping scientists better understand and protect California’s wild places.
No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure!
More Details on the Project:
For the curious, find more details on the project here. Partnering with California Institute for Biodiversity, UC Santa Cruz, and Stillwater Sciences, this project is part of California’s Pathways Strategy to conserve 30% of California’s biodiversity by 2030.
Event Details:
When: Friday, June 13, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Where: Meet at the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge Admin Building And Visitor Contact Station (see here)
What You’ll Learn and Do:
- How to safely collect insects and preserve them for the biodiversity inventory using Adventure Scientists provided gear!
- How your adventure will contribute to scientific understand and conservation efforts in CA!
- How to choose an adventurous hike and contribute to awesome science.
This event is part of the larger Modoc Bioblitz initiative hosted by some of our partners, including Stillwater Sciences. As part of the event, there is optional camping available within the nearby Modoc National Forest. Adventure Scientists is not hosting the camping location, but if you would like to learn more about the options for camping and participating in the Bioblitz, please sign up here.
This will be a fun day catching insects and learning about our state’s spectacular species richness – no prior experience is required! We’ll provide all the training and guide you in your adventure.
Snacks and refreshments will be provided.
Who Can Join:
All are welcome—no prior research experience required! Volunteers must be 18+ to submit data, but participants of all ages are encouraged to join the training, collection, and celebration. *
*Participants under 18 can participate in the project with the supervision of an adult.
Be part of this important effort to protect California’s biodiversity, and get ready for an adventure that makes a difference!
What to Expect on the Field Day:
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Meet in the visitor center conference room. Start the day with a snack and a training and protocol presentation.
You will learn:
- How to properly collect and document biodiversity data
- Which trails in the refuge are permitted for sampling
- Techniques for proper insect sampling
- How your data contributes to conservation efforts
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Head into the field to explore the wildlife refuge and collect samples!
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Celebrate your impact with a post-adventure gathering! Enjoy refreshments and prizes for standout contributions.
Why Join Us?
- Explore the beautiful Modoc National Wildlife Refuge.
- Contribute to critical conservation efforts.
- Connect with like-minded nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Ready to Contribute?
Sign up now to reserve your spot and receive event details!