2008 Oak Lake Field Station BioBlitz

Purpose

The Oak Lake Field Station will be hosting a BioBlitz on Saturday, June 28, 2008. A BioBlitz is an educational program and a scientific survey all combined into one day. The objective is for scientists to count all the species of plants and animals they can find on the field station grounds in a six-hour period (9am-3pm). In addition to the survey, there will be public education programs focusing on the plants, animals, and habitats of South Dakota - including several live animals! The public is invited to this unique opportunity to see “science in action” and learn more about the biodiversity in our region.

Goals and Objectives

There are two main reasons for conducting a BioBlitz. First, it is an excellent way to promote public awareness of local biodiversity. The Oak Lake Field Station is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, many of which most people never see or recognize but are nonetheless essential to the health and stability of the local ecosystem. A BioBlitz, and the media coverage it generates, can help educate people about the incredible biodiversity in their own backyard.

The second reason for holding a BioBlitz is to collect scientific data, with the potential to use that information in research or ecosystem management. A BioBlitz can help guide future scientific studies and resource management plans by identifying invasive species that need to be monitored or controlled, or threatened or endangered species that need to be protected. In addition, any new information about the plants and animals of the field station can be incorporated into interpretive programs for school groups or the general public. In these ways, a one-day BioBlitz can have a lasting impact on both the grounds and the visitors.

Participants

The BioBlitz will give the public a unique opportunity to learn about local biodiversity through observation, hikes, presentations, and interaction with experts from local universities and state and federal agencies, including South Dakota State University; Black Hills State University; South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks; the U.S. Department of Agriculture; and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Temporary labs will be set up in the Dining Hall for scientists to identify and count specimens (this will be open to the public), as well as providing display areas for presenters and event sponsors.

Program at a Glance

The BioBlitz will officially begin at 9am on Saturday morning; however, we are tentatively planning a special early morning bird hike to “kick off” the day. During the hours of the BioBlitz, while scientists are inventorying the field station’s plants and animals, the public will be able to attend presentations by naturalists and researchers on a variety of topics related to biodiversity and the environment. Also, visitors will be free to walk throughout the field station property and observe the scientists collecting samples and recording data. At 3:30pm, all visitors and participants are invited to meet at the BioBlitz headquarters (Administration Building) for the final species count and reports of any unique discoveries. Scientists and specialists will discuss their findings and will be available to answer questions from the public.

Schedule

Coming Soon!

Contact Information

For more information about the BioBlitz, please email Jamie Ladonski or call 605-367-8384.