Lake Mead seeking volunteers for all-out blitz on biology
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is looking for some citizen scientists to take part in a quick, shotgun-style biological survey known as a “BioBlitz” on Saturday.
The event is open to aspiring biologists of all ages and backgrounds or anyone interested in a leisurely walk in the 1.5 million acre park.
Participants will work together to compile a “snapshot” of biodiversity at the recreation area by counting and identifying plant and animal species using cameras, field guides and the iNaturalist app.
There will actually be two blitzes Saturday, each led by scientists and trained volunteers: one at Boulder Beach on Lake Mead and the other at the Pyramid Canyon Day Use Park on Lake Mohave in Laughlin.
Volunteer orientation will be held at the top of each hour between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., followed by an optional group discovery walk.
To participate in the BioBlitz, call Nancy Bernard at 702-293-8714 or email nancy_bernard@nps.gov. Volunteers can also register online at www.getoutdoorsnevada.org.
As of Tuesday, about 70 volunteers had registered for the blitz, Bernard said.
The event is part of a nationwide effort coordinated by the National Park Service to celebrate the agency’s centennial.
Contact Henry Brean at hbrean@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0350. Follow @RefriedBrean on Twitter.
