You can contribute valuable data to a national research project simply by taking a walk and reporting what you see. The timing of plant life cycle events, like leafing out, flowering, and fruiting, is critical to the health of plant communities and ecosystems. These events are also highly sensitive to human impacts on the environment, like climate change. Learn how you can become a citizen scientist with Garden staff Jessa Finch, manager of Budburst, and Jennifer Schwarz Ballard, Ph.D., vice president of learning and engagement. Find out how to submit simple plant observations to Budburst (budburst.org). You can observe any plant, anywhere—from the maple tree in your front yard to a wildflower you find on a hike. The compilation of plant observations from across the country helps Garden researchers understand how plants and ecosystems are responding to environmental change. Budburst.org is a mobile responsive site and we encourage participants to bring your smartphone or tablet. However, no personal technology is required to take part in this workshop. Weather permitting we’ll spend some time outdoors so, please dress appropriately. Limit 20.  Pre-registration required. This workshop is suitable for ages 8 (with accompanying adult) and up; 16-year-olds and above may also register individually.