What: Help scientists collect valuable data during the Fifth Annual DeLuca Preserve BioBlitz, a citizen science biodiversity survey. Participants work together to document as many species as possible using the iNaturalist app.
Where: DeLuca Preserve, 6900 S Kenansville Road, Okeechobee, Florida
When: March 6. Check in is between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. You may leave at any time, and the event ends at 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Media RSVP contact: Meredith Bauer-Mitchell, senior public relations specialist, meredithbauer@ufl.edu
Registration: Please see the Eventbrite registration to reserve a spot.
About: The goal of a BioBlitz event is to document as many species as possible within the preserve on a given day. This helps researchers with conservation efforts because it helps establish a database of existing species of plants, animals and insects. Help make DeLuca Preserve one of the most catalogues parcels of land in the country!
“We couldn’t do all of the work required to preserve Florida’s wildlife without citizen science, and the BioBlitz is where citizen science shines,” said Corey Callaghan, assistant professor of wildlife ecology and conservation at UF/IFAS. “Having the public participate helps our research efforts, and it also shows the public the variety and diversity of species in our state.”
So far, more than 1,000 species have been documented at DeLuca Preserve, and there are many more to find.
Hosted by UF/IFAS researchers and Extension experts, this biodiversity activity is open to all skill levels, but participants must be 18 or older.
Participants can choose between a facilitated BioBlitz with expert guidance or a self-guided BioBlitz and are asked to download the iNaturalist app and bring a cell phone. Experienced users can also bring digital cameras.
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ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.
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