The May Plant Count is a joint effort between Nature Alberta and the Alberta Native Plant Council (ANPC), with a specific committee dedicated to the project within the ANPC. Both Nature Alberta and the ANPC work together to ensure volunteers and participants are notified of the event and that results are disseminated. The May Plant Count is a component of the annual May Species Count and is open to anyone with an interest in plants and flowering. The survey takes place between May 25 – 31 and focuses on documenting the flowering status (i.e., phenological stage) of native plant species across Alberta. The aim is to collect valuable plant data while encouraging stewardship and appreciation of the amazing natural areas Alberta has to offer.
With the advent of iNaturalist, new possibilities have opened to make the May Plant Count more efficient and to boost its value to science and conservation. By using iNaturalist for recording observations, participants in the May Plant Count contribute to the world’s largest biodiversity database, available at no charge to naturalists, educators, and researchers. The high profile of iNaturalist ensures that the data are used for conservation applications.
For more information about this program, visit Nature Alberta’s website: https://naturealberta.ca/may-plant-count/
The last week of May is approaching! During May 25-31, consider participating in the May Plant Count (MPC) from anywhere in Alberta. There are two ways to participate: submitting photos of blooming plants to iNaturalist and/or sending in data recording flowering stage (either via iNaturalist or by datasheet). For more information please visit May Plant Count – Nature Alberta or reach out to Trevor (floreani.trevor@gmail.com).
The following counts are being advertised for those who would like to join an established group:
Clyde Fen [Already advertised on ANPC website]
Kleskun Hill, east of Grande Prairie, May 31
Meet at the Kleskun Hill parking lot at 10 AM. For more information contact Trevor (floreani.trevor@gmail.com)
Boreal Wetland Centre, south of Grande Prairie, May 30
Meet at the BWC parking lot in Evergreen Park at 10 AM. For more information contact Trevor (floreani.trevor@gmail.com)
Beaver Boardwalk, Hinton, May 31
Meet at 9 AM at the picnic tables near Maxwell Apartments. For more information, contact Ashley (research.director@anpc.ab.ca).
Six Mile Coulee, Lethbridge, Time TBD
For more details, please contact Pat Greenlee (pgreenlee@telus.net) if you’d like to try and join. Weaselhead, Calgary, May 30, 9am-11:30am To sign up please contact Rebeccah Schwab (events@theweaselhead.com)
2024 May Plant Count Report: