MDC invites people to become citizen scientists at the Emmenegger Nature Park Bioblitz May 18

KIRKWOOD, Mo. — Harness your passion for nature into a powerful tool to help the natural sciences. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is holding a Bioblitz event at Emmenegger Nature Park in Kirkwood on Saturday, May 18 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Participants can come anytime during the 16-hour event and stay for as long as they choose.   It’s an opportunity to collect valuable data on the plants and animals found on the park’s grounds.

A bioblitz is a focused biological survey performed by scientists, naturalists and volunteers to document all the living species within a given area. Participants conduct an intensive field study during a compressed time period which provides scientists and land managers a snapshot of the natural health and diversity of an area.

Participants will get the chance to roll up their sleeves and get close and personal with a variety of plants and animals, while having fun, learning, and uncovering valuable information, all at the same time. It’s a chance to be a scientist for a day.

Areas of focus will include bird banding, along with surveys for plants, trees, and fungi. Bioblitzers will also seek out ants, spiders, reptiles and amphibians. Capturing bats, small mammals and even moths will also be part of the event. All explorations and data collection will be with the guidance of statewide MDC topic experts and other conservation partners.

The Bioblitz event is free and no registration is required. Participants should dress for the weather and bring a headlamp or flashlight and a refillable water to take advantage of free water refills.

For more information and exact times of each activity, call MDC Naturalist Shelly Colatskie at 314-301-1506, ext. 4222.

To reach Emmenegger Nature Park, take the I-44 Watson Road exit to Geyer Road and turn north. Go 200 yards to Cragwold Road and turn west. Go one mile to Stoneywood Road, then south to the area entrance.