Calendar Event Date:
Fri. June 16th, 2017 – 03:00pm to Sat. June 17th, 2017 – 02:30pm
Blodgett Peak Open Space 3898 West Woodmen Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80919

EVER HEAR OF A BIOBLITZ?

A BioBlitz, also written without capitals as bioblitz, is an intense period of biological surveying in an attempt to record all the living species within a designated area. Groups of scientists, naturalists and volunteers conduct an intensive field study over a continuous time period.
As part of Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS), we have rallied our partners to provide opportunities to the public on Friday, June 16 and Saturday, June 17.  See  below and register for some or all of the sessions…

JUNE 16, 2017

Disturbance and Weeds Walk and Talk  …  Do you ever find yourself wondering if that pretty plant is native or invasive? What kind of impacts do nonnative species have. Why do the rangers ask you to stay on trail, what could possibly be so bad about walking off-trail? Join us as we answer these questions and more!

Fire Restoration Walk and Talk …  Join the Rocky Mountain Field Institute for a brief walk through the work completed in 2013 and 2014 to stabilize hillslopes and reintroduce native species following the Waldo Canyon Fire. This will be a moderately strenuous hike, totalling approximately 3-4 miles.

Moth Backlighting … A white light, plus a blacklight, plus a sheet at night equals moths and other fascinating nocturnal insects.  Who knew?!  Help us find unique “bugs” that could easily represent new species records for the county, if not the state.  Bring your curiosity, a jacket to keep warm, plus water and snacks.  We will deliver the rest.

Moth Backlighting … For a private or small group session: A white light, plus a blacklight, plus a sheet at night equals moths and other fascinating nocturnal insects.  Who knew?!  Help us find unique “bugs” that could easily represent new species records for the county, if not the state.  Bring your curiosity, a jacket to keep warm, plus water and snacks.  We will deliver the rest.

JUNE 17, 2017

Mammal Release … Ever wonder what charismatic micro-fauna lives near you?  To find out, join us on our live-trap and release of little furry critters.  We will boldly explore where no one has gone…well almost, but we may find some *really* amazing stuff.

Bird Hike … Wander through the woods with the Aiken Audubon Society on a hike to find birds living in our foothills.

Family Discovery Hike …  Join us as we take a casual walk around Blodgett Peak Open Space. Learn a bit more aobut the foothills of the front range and this beautiful open space. We will identify common plants in the area and describe their role in the landscape. This walk is great for families and people trying to learn more about their natural environment. Though we will take it slow, we will hike approximately 2 miles over uneven terrain. Children are welcome to attend but we recommend 10 and up due to the terrain.

Mycology Walk with the eEperts …  Walk with the experts as they identify the fungi in the forest. Note: Does not include edible fungi.

Be a citizen scientist with your smartphone …  Technology in nature? Learn to use your smartphone to help document the species in our open spaces. Compete with others to see who can find the most species. Take a walk with the RMFI citizen science team to learn iNaturalist. Please download the iNaturalist app before arrival.

  • 10 am-2 pm  (Open – (4 – 1 hour walks, each begins on the hour until 1 pm)  Activity Number 9374

Fire Restoration Walk and Talk (see above)

Insect Collecting …  Insects are the most diverse organisms on Earth.  There are over 940 species of bees in Colorado alone, for example.  Join us as we search for the “smaller majority” with cameras, nets, magnifiers, and more.  Learn the techniques used by professional entomologists including “sweeping” and “beating” (it’s not what you think).  You are guaranteed to have an entertaining and educational experience, and walk away with a new-found appreciation of all things “bug.”

Disturbance and Weeds Walk and Talk (see above)

Insect Collecting …  (see above)

To register, use the Activity Number above.  All activities are no cost, but do require a person/family to establish an account in the secure registration site.

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