This class will spend some time in class talking about the Bio Blitz Concept and what it entails. The idea will be to go to a field site that we will map and then set up and photograph things we find on site. Before going out, we will have a demonstration on how to photograph the species that we will be collecting in the field. We will collect specimens, take photos of these species there, and collect blitz data. Back in the lab, we will transfer our data to our iNaturalist account. Vials and nets and other collecting devices to use will be provided. When we come back with our discoveries, Kevin will help you photograph the collections showing the techniques described earlier. We will discuss the habitat we are in and why these species are here as well as information about how each participant can do a Bio-Blitz in their own backyard!

Conservation photographer Kevin Fitzpatrick has been working at documenting biodiversity and promoting the importance of environmental education for over 50 years. As a member of both the North American Nature Photography Association and the International League of Conservation Photographers as a Senior Fellow, Kevin continues to actively teach others about the importance of safeguarding the environment His youth programs through the National Forest Service and the National Park Service help young people learn to appreciate being protectors of our environment as they participate with scientists in the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory (ATBI). As National Geographic photographer, he has worked with the Bio Blitz Project together side by side with National Geographic and the National Park Service and now working on organizing Bio Blitzes across the country, having done 115 so far.

Fee: $100