Students in Biology and Environmental Biology majors and other programs will soon be hosting “BioBlitz,” an experiential learning event hosted yearly by the College at Lakeland Park in the Village.
The event is scheduled from noon to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 25. In case of thunderstorms, the alternative date is Sunday, September 26. The program is free and open to the public. Area residents of all ages are invited to take part and learn about fish, amphibians, plants, and invertebrates commonly found in local lakes, wetlands, and forests. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic lunch and some lawn chairs to enjoy the park area.
Biology and Environmental Biology students in four courses, Teaching & Learning, Wetlands Ecology, Environmental Science, and Life In and On the Lake, and their professors have organized several learning stations situated throughout the park, at the lake’s edge, under the pavilion, and elsewhere to offer hands-on learning. Students will guide visitors through the stations and assist them with the learning activities, helping young biologists keep track of their “BioBlitz Passport.” Guests can learn about organisms commonly found in local lakes, wetlands, and forests. Fish can be observed in a temporary mini-pond, guests can try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding at a Learn-to-Paddle station courtesy of Morse Kayak Rentals, and all are welcome to play Bio Bingo. Some activities require that guests wear clothes and shoes that can get wet. For all functions, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Hand-sanitizer will be readily available, and stations will be spread throughout the park and visited in a one-way flow of traffic. Additional COVID-19 protocols in place at the time of the event will be strictly followed.
Questions about the event may be directed to Professor Thad Yorks at 655-7148 or teyorks@cazenovia.edu or search “Bio Blitz” on the College’s web site, where there are photos of past events for reference.