Students in Spring Flora, to get warmed up with using iNaturalist, I propose that you practice uploading specimens we observed on our southern WI fieldtrip. After we return to the Northwoods, that will be a good time to start your field projects.

Please review the project guidelines for tips on good photos and best practice for notes to include in
the description for each specimen. I need to be able to see key traits in your photos to confirm or help with IDs. As an ecologist, I will also be looking for basic habitat information. For example: general forest type (e.g., floodplain forest, northern mesic forest, wet conifer swamp, pine barrens), soil characteristics if you know (e.g., sandy, glacial till, clay, organic, alluvial), associates (who were the common neighbors, if you know), and any other notable features.

Use all of the tips you are learning this month to help you narrow down IDs. If it is a species you learn in this class, I expect you to know it. There will be unknown taxa at your sites, and that's okay. Part of the learning process is documenting key traits that can be helpful in identification. You can record these in the 'description' section using technical terms that you've learned.

Check back often to engage with your classmates, me, and any members of the broader iNaturalist community who may communicate with you about your specimens. Be respectful of this knowledgeable and data-driven community. We seek your best work.

Enjoy botanizing this Spring (and onward)! I know I will. -Sarah