BC residents encouraged to help nature in National Backyard BioBlitz
By Nature Conservancy of Canada
Over the upcoming long weekend, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is encouraging everyone to get outside to enjoy and document the nature around them, in the name of science.
NCC’s third-annual Big Backyard BioBlitz will run from July 28 to August 1, across the country.
From backyards to national parks, on lunch break and on vacation, people can snap photos of the species they find around them and submit their observations to one of the largest crowd-sourced species inventories in Canada.
Together, we’ll compile critical information on species populations and locations for scientists and conservation planners, who can use this information to plan future protection and restoration efforts across the country.
“Anyone can participate. It’s a great way for people of all ages to look at nature more closely and learn about biodiversity close to home,” said Samantha Knight, Conservation Science Manager with NCC.
“Spending time outdoors is also beneficial for our physical and mental well-being. This is a great way to connect with nature and fellow nature lovers, while contributing to our collective knowledge of plants, animals, and fungi in Canada.”
“Whether you log an invasive plant like Eurasian milfoil or a rare bird, like the barn swallow, every entry counts,” Knight said.
“It can provide valuable information such as locating species outside of their usual range or where invasive species are encroaching. This information can be used to identify important habitat for protecting at-risk species.”
More than 6,500 participants logged over 36,000 observations across Canada in last year’s event. One keen observer in B.C. logged more than 400 species observations.
To join the Big Backyard BioBlitz, people can register anytime at www.backyardbioblitz.ca.
Once they register, participants will receive a step-by-step guide on how to participate, photography tips, information about species identification, and an automatic entry to win a Big Backyard BioBlitz prize pack.
To watch a video showing how easy it is to participate, and some species as well, click on this link.
About NCC
The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the country’s unifying force for nature. NCC seeks solutions to the twin crises of rapid biodiversity loss and climate change through large-scale, permanent land conservation. As a trusted partner NCC works with people, communities, businesses and government to protect and care for our country’s most important natural areas. Since 1962, NCC has brought Canadians together to conserve and restore more than 15 million hectares.
Thanks to Canada Life Co for their ongoing commitment to community building, supporting opportunities for people to meaningfully connect with nature and NCC’s Big Backyard BioBlitz! #NCCBioBlitz
Sign up today for the backyardbioblitz.ca
