What is a Bioblitz?
A BioBlitz is an intensive survey of a defined area on a single day with the goal of identifying all the species to be found in that area at one time – it is a snapshot of biodiversity. Come explore Oregon’s coastal waters while helping local scientists survey the species of the region!
How can I get involved?
Before you go, download the iNaturalist app! This is a useful tool (for smartphones) which enables any observer of the natural world, of any skill level, to contribute information to a vast national database. This is the method by which participants will contribute to the Bioblitz.
Where and when are the Bioblitzes?
The Bioblitzes will be at each of Oregon’s Marine Reserves in June and July. See below for location and dates.
JULY
July 5th, 2019 at 8:30 AM: Otter Rock Marine Reserve – Devil’s Punchbowl
July 6th, 2019 at 9:30 AM: Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve – Cape Perpetua Visitor Center
July 6th, 2019 at 9:30 AM: Cascade Head Marine Reserve – Roads End Beach
July 6th, 2019 at 9:00 AM: Cape Falcon Marine Reserve – Neakahnie-Manzanita Sate Park
July 7th, 2019 at 9:00 AM: Redfish Rock Marine Reserve – Port Orford Heads
Additional Tips:
Dress for the weather and bring your spotting scope/binoculars, water and snacks.
Observe wildlife from a safe distance. Don’t ever interfere with the natural activities of wild animals, including feeding, nesting, sleeping, rearing their young, etc.
Trekking without trespassing. When you’re out exploring, make sure you know where you are and that you have permission to be there. Stay on marked trails. If you come to a fence or locked gate, don’t ignore them – they’re there for a reason.
If you pack it in, pack it out. Help keep trash and other contaminates out of natural areas by removing all your debris, including organic materials such as food waste. If you see trash and can remove it safely, please do so.
Be fire safe. Build fires only in designated areas and make certain they’re completely extinguished before you move on.
Take photos, not objects. Video and photograph as much as you like, but leave rocks, plants, feathers, and other natural objects where you find them. Remember, in some places like national parks, it’s illegal for you to remove any item.
Pets have their place. Hiking with your dog can be a wonderful experience, but pets may not be appropriate everywhere you go. Make sure dogs are allowed on the trail you’re hiking, keep them on leash at all times, and always remove their solid waste.
Help preserve the outdoors from indoors. Even when you’re at home or in school, your actions can affect the natural world. Adopting nature-friendly habits – which can be anything from recycling that soda bottle to buying sustainably-harvested seafood – all make a difference to keep our world healthy.
Source: Oregon Coast Aquarium
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