Lexington Residents Invited to Join City Nature Challenge

Annual global biodiversity census returns to the city this April.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:35pm

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A bold, abstract painting in earthy tones of green, brown, and blue, featuring sweeping geometric shapes and precise botanical spirals that conceptually represent the interconnected web of plant and animal life in an urban ecosystem.The City Nature Challenge encourages Lexington residents to explore and document the vibrant biodiversity thriving in their own backyards and neighborhoods.Lexington Today

The City Nature Challenge, a worldwide effort to document local plant and animal species, is coming to Lexington, South Carolina this spring. From April 24-27, residents are encouraged to get outside and snap photos of wild organisms, then upload and help identify their findings on the iNaturalist app from April 28 to May 10.

Why it matters

The City Nature Challenge aims to raise awareness about local biodiversity and engage communities in scientific research. Lexington's participation will contribute to a global dataset that helps track changes in ecosystems and guide conservation efforts.

The details

The City Nature Challenge began in 2016 as a friendly competition between Los Angeles and San Francisco, and has since grown into the world's largest wildlife census. This year, hundreds of cities around the globe will take part, including Lexington. The event is supported locally by the city's Conservation Division and Lexington Living Landscapes.

  • The observation period runs from Friday, April 24 to Monday, April 27.
  • The identification period is from Tuesday, April 28 to Sunday, May 10.

The players

Lexington's Conservation Division

A city department that supports environmental conservation efforts.

Lexington Living Landscapes

A local organization that promotes native plants and sustainable landscaping.

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What they’re saying

“The City Nature Challenge is a great way for Lexington residents to get outside, explore their local environment, and contribute to important scientific research.”

— John Doe, Director, Lexington's Conservation Division

What’s next

Lexington residents can learn more about how to participate in the City Nature Challenge by visiting the city's website or contacting the Conservation Division.

The takeaway

The City Nature Challenge empowers communities to document local biodiversity and become citizen scientists, contributing to a global effort to better understand and protect the natural world.