Union County, NJ – Union County is seeking professional and amateur scientists to help catalog flora and fauna for the 2016 Union County Bio-Blitz. Bio-Blitz is a 24-hour, ‘round the clock nature survey that provides a snapshot of wildlife and plant life in County parks, conducted with an assist from scores of volunteers.
“Each year, Bio-Blitz is our signature event for raising public awareness about the diversity of flora and fauna that flourish in our County parks system. Our volunteer researchers play a key role in that effort,” said Union County Freeholder Chairman Bruce H. Bergen.
Scientists and naturalists are needed to help sample, observe, identify, and record hundreds of plant and animal species in County parks, including fungi and insects.
Bio-Blitz 2016 is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, June 10 and 11. It will take place at three County parks: Kawameeh Park in Union Township, Black Brook Park in Kenilworth, and the Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth.
“With the inclusion of Galloping Hill, Bio-Blitz promises to an especially interesting event this year,” said Bergen. “We are all looking forward to discovering who – or what – is sharing the links with our golfing community.”
Professional scientists, naturalists and knowledgeable amateurs can register online to join a field team, or perform other volunteer activities, at ucnj.org/bio-blitz. The registration deadline is June 1.
In addition to the scientific surveys, Bio-Blitz includes exhibits, displays, and free public walk-in activities for children and adults. Information on this year’s public walk-in activities will be available soon.
For more information about volunteering for Bio-Blitz 2016 contact Betty Ann Kelly, Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, at bkelly@ucnj.org.
For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
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