Come join a bioblitz - a gathering of people who love nature and who all work together to find and identify as many different species found in a certain location. This bioblitz will contribute to the California Native Plant Society’s BUG (Biodiversity in Urban Gardens) Project, which seeks to quantify the impact of native plants on wildlife biodiversity in urban areas.
Participants will be using the iNaturalist app (for iPhone / for Android) to photograph and identify the wildlife they find in the garden. With guidance from experts, participants can learn to catch insects using aerial nets and snap cap vials to get a closer look at their finds.
Waivers/Registration: All volunteers attending must be registered individually and have approved the online waiver through this Eventbrite page. Youth under 18 must have their legal guardian approve the waiver on their behalf. Volunteers age 12 and under require an accompanying adult.
Parking: There is parking available along Laguna Ave and in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Alternate Transportation: By Bus: Routes 22 and 522 stop at El Camino and California Ave. Then walk 1.3 miles to the park. By human-powered wheels: Bike rack parking is available.
Meeting Space: Bol Park Native Garden [Google Maps link]
Prepare for a Bioblitz (what to bring) :
Smartphone with the iNaturalist app downloaded
A camera (optional)
Check out Merav Vonshak's blogpost about favorite gadgets to bring to a bioblitz
Face mask for COVID-19 safety (optional)
Reusable water bottle (filled with water)
Snacks, if desired
Long pants, long sleeves recommended
Sturdy closed-toed shoes that can get dirty
Hat/sunscreen or rain gear/boots
Epi-Pen or allergy medicine, if applicable
Plan for exposure to sun
We will provide snacks, and lend some equipment like binoculars and insect catching tools.
Event Cancellations:
We are committed to the safety of our staff and volunteers. In the event that we must cancel a workday due to extreme weather conditions or poor air quality, a Grassroots Ecology staff person will reach out via email no later than 5:00 PM the day prior to this event.
Join Us!
Grassroots Ecology encourages people from all identities and backgrounds to participate in our programs. Many of our programs are outdoors and involve moving and working in a variety of landscapes. If you have accessibility concerns (e.g. allergies, limited mobility, learning differences), our projects are flexible and we are happy to work with you. Please reach out to the workday facilitator so we can prepare for your participation.
Accessibility concerns? Questions? Cancellations? Email halle@grassrootsecology.org