Empowering Citizen Scientists: Join Our Hands-On Workshop at Paradise Creek Pocket Meadow
- Katy at the Library
- Dec 9, 2025
- 3 min read
Nearly one year ago, the Blanco Library began a wild journey in habitat restoration. Coordinating with community partners like Keep Blanco Beautiful's neighborhood committee, the Blanco County Conservation Initiative, Pete Van Dyck Earthworks, the Highland Lakes Master Naturalists, and members of the Blanco Valley Wildlife Association, volunteers began restoring the overlooked property along Paradise Creek.
With hundreds of pounds of glass and metal recycled and reused, the removal of several invasive species threatening the ecosystem, and the construction of the site's first water and soil conservation berm, the meadow took off in spring and summer of 2025 with a stunning show of wildflowers and a diverse mix of native grasses... to the delight of both local wildlife as well as any library visitors who happened to peek down at the ongoing project.
Now, as winter sets in and the land goes to rest, we invite all local plant nerds and citizen scientists to join us on an exciting journey documenting the meadow’s growth as it begins its next chapter. Our first Meadow Workshop will take place on Wednesday, December 10th at 2 PM. We will meet at the picnic table next to the gravel parking lot, and any latecomers will be able to find us by simply walking down into the meadow where our little group of citizen scientists will be documenting plants, bugs, birds, fungi and more with their phones until sunset.
Why Your Observations Matter
The Paradise Creek Pocket Meadow is a multifaceted green space and a living restoration site where every observation counts. When you record sightings of birds, plants, insects, or fungi, you help track which species live here and how they change with the seasons. This information guides future planting and management efforts, ensuring the meadow thrives for years to come.
Your data also contributes to global research databases, helping scientists understand broader environmental trends. The simple message: your phone can help restore this meadow as well as impact the larger environment. By joining this workshop, you become part of a community that supports local wildlife and plants through careful observation and action.
What You Will Learn
This beginner-friendly workshop focuses on hands-on learning and community science. By the end of the session, you will be able to:
Download and set up Merlin Bird ID, eBird, and iNaturalist on your phone
Use Merlin Bird ID to identify birds and add your sightings to eBird
Explore plants and wildlife on the meadow map alongside other iNaturalist users
Learn what makes observation data scientifically useful
Practice making observations in the meadow and contribute to habitat tracking
Leave confident and ready to continue recording wildlife on your own
These skills will help you support environmental stewardship not only at Paradise Creek Pocket Meadow but also in your own neighborhood.
How You Can Help
Volunteers will gather at 2 PM in the meadow, but you are welcome to come anytime before dark. You can lend a hand removing invasive species, talk with others about the work being done, and share your knowledge. Work gloves are recommended for those who want to help with plant removal, so dress for the weather and be ready to get involved.
Removing invasive plants is crucial because these species can crowd out native plants that local wildlife depend on. By clearing invasives, you help native plants grow stronger and create better habitats for birds, insects, and other animals.
What to Expect During the Workshop
This informal program starts with a brief welcome and an explanation of why your observations matter. You will learn how the meadow is being restored and how your data helps track progress. Then, you will get hands-on experience with the apps that make citizen science easy and fun.
After setting up the apps, you will practice identifying and recording plants and wildlife in the meadow. This real-world experience will build your confidence in using technology to support conservation. The workshop ends with a chance to ask questions and connect with others who care about protecting native habitats.
Join Us and Make a Difference
This workshop offers a chance to learn new skills, enjoy nature, and contribute to a meaningful cause. Whether you are curious about birds, plants, or insects, or want to support habitat restoration, this event welcomes you.
By participating, you become part of a growing community of citizen scientists who use technology to protect native plants and wildlife. Your observations will help guide restoration efforts and contribute to scientific knowledge.
Bring your phone, dress for the weather, and get ready for an afternoon of discovery and stewardship at Paradise Creek Pocket Meadow. Together, we can support this special place and help it flourish into the future.
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