The Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council (TRVSC) invites families, students, scouts, and nature lovers to join a free community BioBlitz at Muscle Shoals Reservation Trails on June 12-13. TVA and Discover Life in America host the program that mixes outdoor fun, hands-on education, and genuine scientific work open to all ages.

TRVSC, a seven-state partnership focused on outdoor connections and future conservation leaders, endorses the event. A BioBlitz challenges participants to record as many plants and animals as possible in a set area. People use their eyes, cameras, and phone apps to note local wildlife and learn about species living nearby.

For children the activity feels like a treasure hunt rather than classwork. Young explorers can hunt insects, name birds, capture photos of wildflowers, and add findings to a shared scientific database.

The program starts Friday evening from 7 to 10 p.m. with a night walk on the Rockpile Trail. Guests will shine black lights to spot moths, beetles, fireflies, and other insects active only after dark.

Saturday from 8 to 11 a.m. brings everyone back to the Rockpile Trail for guided bird counts and species identification. Walkers may see blooming Indian pink, beebalm, woodland phlox, and coral honeysuckle plus butterflies, moths, and bright green beetles. These outings highlight the rich life across the reservation forests, fields, and waters.

"Children naturally wonder about their surroundings," said Jessica Stevens Raper, TVA Support Representative for Environmental Stewardship. "A BioBlitz lets them ask questions, make finds, and add to real conservation data. We want families to leave with greater respect for nature and a wish to keep exploring nearby trails."

Such events help youth build observation skills, scientific interest, and awareness of their role in safeguarding resources.

"The surest way to grow future conservation leaders is to let them experience nature directly," said Julie Graham, TRV Stewardship Council spokesperson. "Whether a child finds an uncommon wildflower, sees a new bird, or simply gains fresh respect for the outdoors, the moment can ignite a lasting commitment to stewardship."

Muscle Shoals Reservation Trails offer more than 17 miles of scenic routes through varied habitats, creating an excellent outdoor setting for lessons on nature, wildlife, and conservation.

The event is free and open to everyone with no prior experience required. Families should bring comfortable shoes, water, and a smartphone or camera to record observations.

By taking part, youth and families will learn about nature while helping scientists understand and protect it for years ahead, joining a growing network devoted to the Tennessee River Valley's natural assets.

The TRV Stewardship Council is a nonprofit group that promotes stewardship, economic strength, and tourism throughout the seven-state Tennessee River Valley watershed. The Council connects communities and visitors through programs that highlight the region's landscapes, history, and culture. TVA provides generous support for these efforts.

SOURCE TRV Stewardship Council