Have you heard of the “Colorado Columbine Challenge?” It’s a 2026 community science initiative to document the distribution of the state flower to mark Colorado’s 150th anniversary (Sesquicentennial) and the 50th Anniversary of the Colorado Native Plant Society. It invites residents to map columbines using the iNaturalist app.
Key details about the challenge and related 150th anniversary events:
- Purpose: To create a comprehensive, statewide survey of the Colorado State Flower (Aquilegia caerulea) through community science.
- Participation: Participants use the iNaturalist app to record locations of the flower throughout the spring and summer of 2026.
- Organizers: Led by plant ecologist Richard Alward and Mele Avery of the Colorado Native Plant Society.
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Launch: A virtual meeting/training for the project was held on April 20, 2026.