In a BioBlitz, volunteers working in teams have 24 hours to tally as many species of animals and plants as they can on a particular parcel of land. The goals are several: 1) to demonstrate that biodiversity is important here at home, not just in distant places; 2) to show by example how field biologists and naturalists learn about species and the environment; 3) to encourage communication among people who share a curiosity about the environment; and 4) to survey the species on the property for the benefit of the landowner for planning and conservation purposes.

The Rhode Island Natural History Survey organized the first Rhode Island BioBlitz in 2000, held in Roger Williams Park, in Providence. There, 33 volunteers found 663 species. Since then, Rhode Island BioBlitz has been held annually, moving around the state. A typical year draws 150-200 participants from throughout the northeast and identifies 900 to 1,400 species, depending on site, weather, and the expertise on the teams.

For safety and ease of organization, all participants in a Rhode Island BioBlitz must pre-register with the Natural History Survey, sign a liability waiver, and agree to follow rules tailored to the circumstances at each event site. The events are organized by teams and all participants must be assigned to a team. For more about how the Rhode Island BioBlitz is conducted, including how we count species, what the teams are, and resources for the teams, visit the BioBlitz Team Page.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED!