A Grounded by Nature Foundation Program
Nature Detectives
Nature is leaving clues everywhere. Are you paying attention?
Join Grounded by Nature Foundation for seven days of outdoor discoveries. Beginning Sunday, September 20, we will release one new "Nature Case" each day. Each Nature Case is a outdoor mission that asks you to explore, observe, submit evidence, and earn points.
Case 3
September 22, 2026
Nature's Patterns
Nature is full of patterns. Your mission is to find one natural pattern in the world around you.
Look for patterns in leaves, flowers, tree bark, feathers, clouds, spider webs, rocks, water, shadows, or any other safe and observable part of nature.
Participants should submit:
- A photo or short video of the pattern
- Where they found it
- What pattern they noticed
- Their Detective Observation: one detail they noticed while looking closely
Nature Code
PATTERN
Optional Bonus Clue
+1 pointFind a second natural pattern nearby. The second pattern can be different from the first. The optional Bonus Clue is worth one additional point.
Each daily case is worth points. The optional Bonus Clue can earn one additional point per case. The participant with the highest verified score at the end of the challenge wins the $50 prize.
Participation Eligibility
Only participants who complete the official Nature Detectives registration are eligible to earn points or win the $50 prize.
When submitting evidence, participants must use the same name and email address they used during registration. Submissions may be checked against the registration list before points are awarded.
Entries from people who are not registered may be submitted, but they will not count toward the challenge score or prize.
Observe respectfully, stay in safe and permitted areas, and do not touch or disturb wildlife, plants, nests, or natural habitats.
Previous Cases2 cases
Case 2
September 21, 2026
Nature Is Everywhere
Nature is not only found deep in the woods. It is living all around us — even in cities and neighborhoods.
Find one example of nature living near people — a bird on a wire, a plant through a sidewalk crack, moss on a wall, an insect, a squirrel, or a tree beside a building.
Participants submitted:
- A photo or short video of their discovery
- Where they found it
- What they observed
- One detail showing how nature is living or adapting in that environment
Nature Code
EVERYWHERE
Case 1
September 20, 2026
The Hidden Food Source
Nature is always leaving clues — but sometimes you have to slow down and listen.
Find a gathering of birds or another sign that animals may be nearby. Follow the clues to discover a natural food source — nuts, berries, seeds, or fruit.
Participants submitted:
- A photo or short video of their discovery
- What clues led them there
- What natural food source they found
- What animals might benefit from it
Nature Code
LISTEN
How it works
Four Simple Steps
01
Register for the challenge.
02
Return each day for the new Nature Case and daily Nature Code.
03
Go outside and submit a photo or short video of your discovery.
04
Earn points for each verified case you complete.
Scoring and prize
How the $50 Winner Is Chosen
Each daily Nature Case is worth up to 10 points:
- 8 points for completing the mission and providing valid photo or video proof
- 1 point for answering the daily Detective Observation
- 1 bonus point for completing the optional Bonus Clue
Participants can earn up to 70 points during the seven-day challenge. The participant with the highest verified score will win the $50 prize.
If two or more participants tie for the highest score, they will receive a surprise final Nature Case. The finalist who earns the highest score on that case will win.
No purchase or donation is required to participate or win.
Who can join
Made for Everyday Explorers
You do not need nature experience or special equipment to participate. Adults, children, and families are all welcome. A parent or legal guardian must register and submit entries for anyone under 18. We will ask only for your city and state—not your street address or the exact location of your discoveries.
Keeping it fair
Keeping the Challenge Fair
Each daily case will include a unique Nature Code. Every photo or video must be created by the participant during the challenge. Artificially generated, copied, previously taken, or misleading submissions will not qualify. Finalists may be asked to complete an additional verification mission.
Important dates
Challenge Dates
More Nature Detectives Adventures Are Coming
This first challenge is only the beginning. We're developing more ways for children and families to explore nature, solve new cases, and grow their outdoor skills.
Coming Soon
- Advanced Nature Detective challenges
- Seasonal and themed cases
- Expanded age divisions
- Sponsored participation opportunities
- Community and partner-supported challenges
Are You Ready to Become a Nature Detective?
Registration is now open. Follow Grounded by Nature Foundation so you do not miss the first case.
Register Now