Nature is for everyone.
The importance of accessibility in nature cannot be understated. Here at GBNERR, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy and access natural spaces.
Visitors enjoying the boardwalk
Recently, while reflecting on our programming, our staff realized that while the boardwalk on our Greenland campus is fully accessible, many people may not know that! This sparked important conversations about inclusion and accessibility both on our campus and in general when it comes to natural spaces. As a result of this conversation, we made it a priority to better highlight the boardwalks wheelchair and stroller-accessible design. One program that can be enjoyed entirely from our accessible trail and boardwalk is the Phenology Volunteer Program. Volunteers can collect all data directly from the trail at their own pace, at any time of the year.
What exactly is phenology?
Phenology, often called “nature’s calendar,” is the study of seasonal changes in the environment. The blooming of flowers, bird migration, changing leaves, and the emergence of insects are all examples of phenological events. Along the boardwalk, visitors can observe and document these events, transforming a simple walk into an opportunity to observe nature more deeply and contribute to meaningful scientific research.
For years, dedicated volunteers have helped collect phenology data along the “phenology trail” on campus. The data contributes to a long-term scientific dataset used to better understand how our changing climate impacts the timing of phenological events.
We would love to have you get involved.
Observations can be made directly from the accessible trail, allowing wheelchair users, families with strollers, and casual visitors alike to engage in the same meaningful experience without barriers.
Access to nature and community science should belong to everyone. We hope that the boardwalk helps make that possible by creating a space where discovery and participation is open to all.
If you have questions about the Phenology Volunteer Program or would like to become a volunteer, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Melissa Brogle, at melissa.r.brogle@wildlife.nh.gov for more information and to set up a training session.
Visit the boardwalk at 89 Depot Road, Greenland, NH 03840.
– Katie McGovern, Research Staff
