On The Land
31 October, 2024
BioBlitz to study river surrounds
A UNIQUE event aimed at studying a specific environmental area to identify and record as many living species as possible will be held for the first time in Malanda this week.
The community has the opportunity to join with scientists, students, and nature enthusiasts in the Malanda BioBlitz on Saturday which will target a stretch of the North Johnstone River at Dungavel Park on Ann Street.
A BioBlitz is a citizen science activity comprising a snapshot study of a specific area where survey teams undertake a field study to identify and record as many living species as possible to improve the understanding of the local biodiversity.
Participants and experts will conduct field surveys in the riparian community along the river and adjacent parkland to look for plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, fungi and more.
“The event is about bringing together like-minded people with an interest in local biodiversity and taking them on a journey of scientific discovery,” event coordinator Gemma Horner said.
“They will learn survey techniques and be introduced to a range of tools and resources, allowing them to continue to contribute to citizen science after the event.
“The wide variety of activities on the day make it an event for all ages and physical abilities.
“We have been thrilled to have so much support from government agencies, community organisations, wildlife experts and others all volunteering their time to be part of the event.
“With all of this community support, there is no doubt in my mind that the Malanda BioBlitz is going to be a great day.”
Hosted by Malanda Landcare and funded through the Queensland Government – Engaging Science Grants, Tablelands Regional Council and the Wet Tropics Management Authority, the BioBlitz will provide a schools-only program on the Friday which includes hands-on surveys, workshops and presentations.
Saturday’s activities are open to the wider community and in addition to a full day of scientific surveys, includes workshops, presentations, nature art activities and an expo with information stalls from various government agencies and community organisations.
A nature art and photography competition will be run focusing on plants and animals encountered during the BioBlitz. The event program lists all the times for the different activities throughout the day which kicks off at 7am. All events are free.
Results of the surveys will be presented on Facebook and the event website and will be uploaded into the citizen science app iNaturalist, a global biodiversity database.
To learn more about Malanda Landcare’s BioBlitz event, which is on 9 November, visit www.malandabioblitz.com.au
