Atlas-3 2025 Kick-off - April 26th & 27th!
Interested in Birds?
Help us kick off the final year of data collection for Atlas-3 this April, at our in-person kick-off event weekend! The event will focus on an introduction to Atlas-3 and how to best get involved. It is also a great way to meet fellow Atlassers, get hands-on training from experts, and ask questions in person to better prepare yourself for the upcoming season. Experience is not required, enthusiasm is!
Atlas HQ Events
Atlas HQ will be hosting three in-person kick-off events this spring. On Saturday, April 26th, join us at either the Huron Natural Area in Kitchener or the Little Cataraqui Creek Outdoor Centre in Kingston. A third event will take place at Canatara Park in Sarnia on Sunday, April 27th. Registration is required and spots are limited! Click here to register. Not near Kitchener, Kingston, or Sarnia? Check below for other regional events hosted by Atlas Regional Coordinators!
Location Details & Registration
Little Cataraqui Creek Outdoor Centre
Saturday, April 26, 2025 (9:00AM – 12:00PM)
Directions: 1641 Perth Rd, Glenburnie, ON K0H 1S0
Huron Natural Area
Saturday, April 26, 2025 (9:30AM – 12:30PM)
Directions: 801 Trillium Dr, Kitchener, ON N2R 1K4
Canatara Park
Sunday, April 27, 2025 (9:30AM – 12:30PM)
Directions: Lake Chipican Dr, Sarnia, ON N7V 1K8
Atlas HQ Event Agenda
1 – Welcome (15 minutes)
2 – Recap of Atlas-3 project overview, coverage goals (30 minutes)
3 – Split up into small group sessions: Using the app, special surveys, point counts, Zoom units, breeding evidence codes, atlassing basics (1.5 hours)
4 – Filling local coverage gaps (15 minutes)
5 – Recap, questions, door prizes (30 minutes)
6 – Departure
Don’t forget to dress for the weather, bring your Atlassing gear (binoculars, notebooks, smartphone, other technology, etc.) and questions. Refreshments and light snacks will be provided
Virtual Presentations
New to the Atlas or looking for some refreshers? Check out our “Getting started with Atlas-3” playlist. It’s a short series of recorded presentations (<10 minutes) that go through all the Atlas basics!
Regional Events
Can’t make it to Kitchener, Kingston, or Sarnia? No problem! Many regions will be hosting their own local events either on the kick-off weekend or in the weeks following.
| Region | Details |
|---|---|
|
29 – North Bay |
Description: We will be meeting outdoors in early May, at a location yet to be determined, to talk about the Atlas project and how people can participate. We will take a short walk and demonstrate how to use the NatureCounts app to record and submit a checklist. Location: TBD Date/time: TBD How to register: Contact Grant McKercher at grant.mckercher705@gmail.com |
|
24 – Ottawa |
Description: Join us in-store for a special presentation with Aaron Hywarren, Ottawa Regional Coordinator for the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. Learn how this incredible province-wide community science initiative is tracking Ontario’s approximately 300 breeding bird species and how you can be part of it — right from your backyard, cottage, or favourite trail. This engaging talk will focus on the Ottawa Region, where over 250 local volunteers have already recorded 198 species. Discover how your bird sightings — even a cardinal at the feeder — can contribute valuable data toward conservation efforts. Free to attend – no registration required, but seating is limited. Light refreshments and a selection of delicious treats from our new neighbours at Lusa Bakery will be provided while you learn about the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. Location: Wild Birds Unlimited Kanata, 420 Hazeldean Road Unit 11, Kanata, ON, Canada K2L 4B2 Date/time: May 1, 2025 (630PM to 8PM) How to register: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZyfz1jgm/ |