California Biodiversity

California is one of our planet’s 36 global biodiversity hotspots— regions that teem with unique life but face significant threats. As climate change, wildfires, and other forces rapidly reshape ecosystems, detailed records of plants, fungi, and animals are critical to shaping conservation strategies and safeguarding the state’s natural heritage.

Adventure Scientists has teamed up with the California Institute for Biodiversity to document the state’s insects and soil biodiversity. This project is part of an All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory, supporting California’s ambitious 30×30 Pathways Strategy to conserve 30% of the state by 2030.

As a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to give back while exploring California’s diverse ecoregions, from lush national forests to pristine state parks. You’ll collect soil samples and sweep for insects, contributing to the discovery of new species and providing valuable data that will shape California’s conservation future.

No prior experience is needed! We’ll provide you with the tools and training you need to collect high-quality field data that will make a difference. After joining the project, you’ll take a short online course to learn the ropes of data collection, location scouting, and how to send in your soil and insect samples.

Take the leap and join us today! Be part of the movement to protect California’s incredible biodiversity, and stay tuned for exciting fall events coming to a location near you.

Sign up for this project!

Complete the form below to apply for this project. We will reach out via email with training materials and next steps.


You must be over the age of 18 in order to volunteer for an Adventure Scientists project. Please reach out to an adult to apply with.





Adventure Scientists recruits, trains and manages volunteers to gather high-quality data at scale for scientific partners (NGOs, government agencies, researchers and more) who are focused on solving critical environmental challenges.