Help Scientists Study National Lakeshore during BioBlitz

Date: April 29, 2016

INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE– Join scientists for a BioBlitz at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore’s Miller Woods on Saturday, May 21, 2016. A BioBlitz, is a fun, collaborative race against the clock to discover as many species of plants and animals within a set location. Although led by scientists and other professionals, the general public, both young and old, are invited to help and learn all at the same time. Scientists will lead species counting groups day and night and each will have a specialized focus. Some will look for birds, plants, amphibians, or a number of other categories. 

Explorers of all ages are needed. The Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education will serve as base camp for the BioBlitz and will also include a variety of other fun activities and learning stations throughout the event. Advance registration is required to participate in a scientist-led counting team for the BioBlitz. No expertise or experience is needed to be part of a counting team. Space is limited on each counting team, so advance registration is required. To register, go the national lakeshore’s website at: www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/bioblitz2016.htm. Advance registration is not required to take part in all of the fun learning stations and exhibits, including a live animal room, at the Douglas Center.

Partners in this event include the Dunes Learning Center, Marquette Park Pavilion, the United States Geological Survey and over 25 scientists and other experts who are donating their time to lead counting teams. Parking is available at Lake Street Beach with free shuttles to the Douglas Center. The center is located at 100 N. Lake Street in the Miller neighborhood of Gary, Indiana. For more information, call the national lakeshore’s information desk at 219-395-1882.