BioBlitz Combines Citizen Science and Community Fun
This weekend’s first-ever BioBlitz on the School campus promises to be an exciting community event, with myriad opportunities for scientific exploration and discovery as well as fun and games (and treats).
Upper School science teacher Lynne Scott (C’01), who has participated in several BioBlitzes in the St. Louis region, has been instrumental in bringing this nationally popular citizen-science event to the School—and she feels the timing couldn’t be better.
“Principia today is all about porous walls—about expanding beyond the classroom,” she says, noting how the campus’s 360 acres of prairie, woods, and ponds have become integral to the curriculum. “We are stewarding the land more responsibly and seeing changes in the species present. And, now, this BioBlitz is broadening our sense of community by linking us with experts from across St. Louis.”
Bioblitzes are all about connecting the public to scientists in the area who can inspire and inform communities and help them document and understand their local environment. More than 15 experts—from the Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri Department of Conservation, World Bird Sanctuary, and WildHeart Ecology—will be on hand for Principia’s Bioblitz, working with students and the public.
From a scientific standpoint, the two-day event is an opportunity to get a “snapshot” of the many species that live on (or pass through) the School campus. By obtaining baseline data this year, it will be possible to show changes over time in the composition of the flora and fauna. Turtle tracking and stargazing, birding and bat netting, scientific surveys and plein air painting are some of the varied learning opportunities that will be available from noon on Friday to noon on Saturday. In addition to Principia students, students from Community School and St. Michaels will also be participating in the Friday-afternoon observation and data-gathering activities.
And, thanks to the efforts of the Principia Alumni & Field Relations Office, BioBlitz participants will also be able to enjoy hayrides, a campfire with s’mores, and a pancake breakfast. Principia’s alumni office team views the event as a valuable opportunity to reach out beyond the circle of Principia alumni and friends to the School’s neighbors in Town & Country and the St. Louis area.
Learn more about Principia BioBlitz 2018—and invite family and friends to participate!