Plant Survey: Document and Preserve Native Species
Suitable Age: 12 years and above

*Note: The minimum age might be adjusted if parents/guardians are joining.

Min Capacity: 15 students per trip
Max Capacity: 32 students per trip

Step into the role of a citizen scientist and help protect the UAE’s native plant species! In this field activity, students will explore local habitats and use apps like iNaturalist to survey and classify native plants, contributing valuable data to national conservation efforts.

Students will:
✅ Learn plant classification techniques and how to identify key species
✅ Survey native plants using iNaturalist to record plant diversity
✅ Contribute findings to environmental databases supporting conservation

🌱 Why it matters
Native plants are species that grow naturally in an area and are adapted to the local environment. They are a vital part of local ecosystems, supporting other species, including pollinators and wildlife. Knowing what species exist, where they grow, and how their populations are changing is essential to protect them effectively and maintain healthy ecosystems.

By classifying and recording native plants, students take an active role in safeguarding biodiversity and supporting national efforts to preserve the UAE’s natural heritage.

This activity also deepens students’ connection to the UAE’s unique natural heritage, inspiring a lifelong appreciation and sense of stewardship for the environment.

🌍 What students will learn

• How to identify and classify native plant species in the UAE
• The cultural and ecological value of native plants in local ecosystems
• The importance of data collection in supporting effective conservation

🛠️ How students will help

• Collect and document native plant data in the field
• Upload plant observations to iNaturalist, contributing to global biodiversity records
• Preserve local knowledge and support national conservation efforts

🎒 Packing list

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat and sunscreen
• Plenty of water
• Smartphone with iNaturalist app installed

📦 A full pre-trip kit will be shared upon booking to help your students get ready for the experience!