Square Bashes

If you’re looking to meet fellow Atlassers, get hands-on training from experts, and help collect data in under surveyed areas, join us at an Atlas square bash! These multi-day events are hosted by Atlas staff and are strategically held at campgrounds located within or near large gaps in data coverage. Each day, participants split up and conduct Atlas surveys in Atlas squares near the park that are in need of data. Come for a day or more (free camping for registered participants). All skill levels welcome!

Southern Grey-Bruce Square Bash

(Friday, May 23 - Wednesday, May 28, 2025)

We chose this location because it is strategically located between southern Bruce and Grey Atlas Regions where some coverage gaps exist. The local area offers some of the richest grassland bird habitat in southwestern Ontario and has an amazing diversity of forest birds as well. If species like Golden-winged Warbler and Upland Sandpiper are high on your list, then this one is for you. This event is a convenient trip for London, Guelph, Kitchener, Hamilton, and GTA atlassers. Register for the Grey-Bruce Square Bash here.

Silent Lake Square Bash

(Friday, May 30 - Wednesday, June 4, 2025)

This area features beautiful lakes with extensive forests of the southern Canadian Shield and is home to a rich diversity of breeding songbirds, with more species of warbler than you can shake a stick at. This event is a convenient trip for Peterborough, Barrie, Kingston, and GTA atlassers. Register for the Silent Lake Square Bash here.

Bonnechere Square Bash

(Friday, June 6 - Wednesday, June 11, 2025)

This area is home to beautiful hardwood and pine forests and wetlands and in close proximity to the rich grassland habitat of the Ottawa Valley. There’s a possibility for a truly great diversity of birds in this area from Black-backed Woodpeckers to Baltimore Orioles. Located not far from Pembroke, this event is convenient for Ottawa, Kingston, and Peterborough area atlassers. Register for the Bonnechere Square Bash here.

Regional Events

Can’t make it any of the Atlas HQ-led square bashes above? No problem! Many regions will be hosting their own local square bashes during the month of June.

Region Details

17 – Northumberland

Description: Northumberland’s square bash is designed to complete squares that are unassigned and require hours as well as species. There will be snacks and refreshments at 11:30 AM at a location TBD.

Location: various

Date/time: June 1, 2025 (8AM – 11AM)

How to register: Contact Marie Wannamaker at rick.marie.wannamaker@gmail.com

2 – Chatham

Description: We’re looking to fill some gaps north of Rondeau Provincial Park that need point counts or general atlassing. Sign up for one or more days – camping is provided at Rondeau Provincial Park, but you must register in advance. This is a “mini” square bash, so you need to register in advance to get your assignments by phone or email.

Location: Rondeau Provincial Park

Date/time: June 12-16

How to register: fill out the sign-up form here

5 – Norfolk

Description: We’re looking to fill some gaps , particularly in the north part of Norfolk Atlas Region (near Woodstock and Norwich) that need point counts or general atlassing. Sign up for one or more days. This is a “mini” square bash, so you need to register in advance to get your assignments by phone or email.

Location: Norfolk

Date/time: June 14-22

How to register: fill out the sign-up form here

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