Welcome to BioBlitz-in-a-Box!

These tips and tools for organizing a bioblitz were compiled by the Canadian Wildlife Federation based on various online bioblitz guides, and professional and personal experiences. Feel free to browse around to find something to help with your own bioblitz plans!

Acknowledgments and Links

Numerous sources, personal communications and publically available online resources helped guide the development of BioBlitz-in-a-Box. A specific thank you to several particularly helpful resources, including:

Planning a BioBlitz - A Universal Guide developed by the Ontario BioBlitz Program. ( http://www.ontariobioblitz.ca/uploads/3/2/1/7/32179345/bioblitz_universal_protocol_draft_5_oct_2014.pdf )

Guide for Planning Community Bioblitz Events in Eastern Ontario produced by a partnership of the Community Stewardship Council of Lanark County, Watersheds Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, the YMCA/YWCA Youth Eco Internship Program and the Otty Lake Association. ( http://watersheds.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/FINALBIOBLITZPROTOCOL2.pdf )

Guide to Running a BioBlitz developed by a partnership of Natural History Museum, Bristol Natural History Consortium, Stockholm Environment Institute York and the Marine Biological Association. ( http://www.bnhc.org.uk/bioblitz/free-downloadable-resources/ )

Other Tools

Useful guide related to bioblitzes: Let’s Talk About Data published by the Bristol Natural History Consortium and the National Biodiversity Network, in consultation with a large number of specialists. ( http://www.bnhc.org.uk/bioblitz/free-downloadable-resources/lets-talk-data/?platform=hootsuite )

For BioBlitz Canada 150 Partners only: Examples of planning spreadsheets for managing the scientific and public event sides of a bioblitz, kindly provided by the Stanley Park Ecology Society and the Royal Ontario Museum, in folder “2.1. Event Planning Tools” in the BbC150 Dropbox.

1. Scientific Protocol

1.1. Basic Standards of a BioBlitz Inventory Protocol

A bioblitz can fall within a spectrum of a highly scientist-driven inventory at one end, to a primary focus on public participation at the other. Most events will encompass nature interpretation, conservation education, guided hikes, workshops or complementary cultural activities so are somewhere in the middle of the spectrum.

At a minimum, the event must involve a multi-species inventory in a given area (or areas) of the site.

The following are some guidelines for an inventory under a BioBlitz Canada event:

1. Aim for a survey of multiple taxa, to cover as many species groups as possible
2. Plan for a concerted search effort that comprises a minimum of 8 hours across the period of the bioblitz.
3. Arrange for direct participation with or supervision by species experts, or at least that the survey methods be developed in consultation with experts and operate according to their advice.
4. Secure all necessary licenses, permits and/or authorizations for participants’ presence on the property and for any collection, handling or survey methods for species or special areas. This is the host(s)’ responsibility to arrange and confirm beforehand.
5. Ensure proper conduct of any ‘invasive’ survey, such as trapping (e.g. turtles or mammals), netting (e.g. birds, fish or bats) and lethal sampling of invertebrates, which must be carried out by a qualified individual who is competent in the recognized methods and who has a current required permit.
6. Use a range of the many ‘non–invasive’ surveys for species that are not at-risk, such as visual, acoustic, hand catching of reptiles and amphibians and non-lethal invertebrate collecting, including for example:
   1. Trail camera set-ups, which can be baited with scent lures to attract certain species;
   2. Inkpad sampling for small mammal tracks;
   3. Visual and listening surveys for birds;
   4. Visual survey for amphibians and reptiles, which could include catching by hand or sweep-net and release once the individual is identified or a suitable photo is taken;
   5. Acoustic monitoring of bats by means of an appropriate acoustic monitoring device;
   6. Hand netting of fish and release once the individual is identified or a suitable photo taken; and
   7. Sweep netting for insect collection and release of the individual once an identification or suitable photo is taken.
7. Consider that each species group be surveyed at the appropriate time of year and at the appropriate time of day. For example:
   1. a. Songbirds are typically surveyed for in the early morning; evening and night for nocturnal birds;
   2. b. Bats are surveyed at dusk (at sunset and just after) and in the late evening/night;
   3. c. For basking surveys of turtles there is less chance of basking during July-August and during the hottest part of the day.
   4. d. Trail cameras are installed in the days leading up to the bioblitz and set to record throughout the event.
   5. e. Flying insects are surveyed during low wind conditions.
8. If an observation is made by someone not very expert in that taxon, try to capture a clear photo showing distinctive features to help with verifying the occurrence.

1.2. Tips on How to Find Scientists and Experts

It’s a ‘chicken-or-egg’ situation: connections you already have with local or other taxa experts can shape which taxonomic groups you will plan to survey; but you can pick your preferred target taxa and then research which scientists/specialists to invite.

Looking for scientists and experts to join your BioBlitz? Start with internet searches and discussions with local town/city halls, museums, nature clubs, or university and college environmental programs. The Conservation Data Centre in your province/territory may also help. Contact former BioBlitz organizers to see if they can provide the names and contact information of their previous attending scientists and experts, or talk to partner organizations listed on BioBlitz Canada for additional resources. Try to make contact before summer when many scientists are busy with similar studies.

1.2.1. Contacting the Conservation Data Centres (CDCs)

All event host partners are encouraged to contact the CDC in their province/territory, in order to discuss their proposed projects. The CDCs will not only be able to contribute scientific expertise (e.g., species lists for that jurisdiction, summary of data recorded for the region in question), they will also know of potential partnering organizations. In addition, it is possible the CDCs could contribute in-kind resources such as staff and equipment.

If your event uses the iNaturalist.ca platform, the data collected during your bioblitz will be automatically flagged to all the CDCs, for them to transfer into their own databases.

Here’s a list of the Conservation Data Centres in Canada, with the name and contact info of a person you can reach at each one.

1.2.2. Roles of Scientists and Experts

To give you an idea of the possible roles of scientists and experts (and to evaluate what your needs are for your bioblitz), here’s a description from a large 2016 Ontario Bioblitz:

Ontario Bioblitz 2016

Role Descriptions

Taxon Inventory Coordinators/Scientist co-leaders (Members of Bioblitz Steering Committee)
Responsible for:

• Finding Taxon Coordinators
• Helping them to coordinate all their activities
• Securing resources on site, equipment
• Preparing species checklists in advance
• Site selection – work with local organization. Ensuring site has appropriate access and is suitable for most taxa

Database Coordinator (Member of Bioblitz Steering Committee)
Responsible for:

• Designing a data entry protocol
• Training data entry volunteers
• Overseeing data entry
• Liaising with Taxon Coordinators
• Liaising with Communications Coordinator for online upload of data
• Liaising with Image Coordinator
• Creating an iNaturalist.ca project and facilitating data upload from taxonomic specialists

Taxon Coordinators (“leads”) – Specialists in a particular group of organism

• Recruit other professional scientists, students, and skilled amateur naturalists with expertise in that taxonomic group
• Agree on taxa that can be usefully targeted; if from away, with recommendations from knowledgeable locals
• Apply for any necessary permits
• Design collecting protocols and prepare survey techniques
• Be responsible or assign responsibility for determination of all observed or collected specimens and site records and sign off/verify identifications
• Pass all data on to a taxon data coordinator who will ensure entry and upload
• After the bioblitz, will verify posted data and submit all additional data to database coordinator as identifications are completed

Taxonomic Specialist: Professional Biologist or Ecologist, or Recognized Amateur Expert Naturalist

• Serve as Survey crew team leaders
• Collect specimens and site records
• Amass data and submit to taxon coordinator
• Identify specimens in field and in lab

Skilled Naturalists and Student specialists

• Participate as members of survey teams
• Must have basic knowledge of taxonomic group and basic field skills
• Assist with record keeping and specimen sorting
• Leading guided blitzes or doing taxon demonstrations

Skilled Interpreter or Nature Hike Leaders May be a taxon specialist or an experienced nature educator or a scientist
Responsible for:

• Conducting pre-blitz workshops, demonstrations, presentations, walks or other training and/or
• Participating in guided inventory / learn to blitz program for novice naturalists

Novice Naturalists, Nature Enthusiasts

• Participate in Guided Inventory hikes and workshops
• Take photos to upload observations into iNaturalist
• Enthusiasm and interest required, minimal prior knowledge necessary
• For participants who want to learn survey and identification skills
• For individuals who want to participate but may have limited time
• For individuals who want to work on more than one taxonomic group

Database volunteers

• People with special expertise in data entry and familiar with a particular taxon
• Assigned to a discipline/ taxa to do data entry for that group
• Will be situated with taxon group at base camp
• Responsible to Taxon Coordinator and Database Coordinator

1.2.3. Elements of Letter of Invitation to Taxa Experts

[Consider inserting an image – from a past BioBlitz, from the proposed BioBlitz location, species from the area – in the header, in the margin of the body of the letter….]

[an event logo or your logo, if you have one]
[name of your Bioblitz, the city or town and province if not otherwise obvious]
[site of blitz park/property, if different from the name]

[date – month/day/year]

[address of scientist]

Dear [scientist title and name],

To mark Canada’s 150^th, the national BioBlitz Canada 150 initiative (a Canada 150 signature project) aims to engage Canadians in connecting with this country’s natural heritage and learn about the value of documenting knowledge about our living species.

To that end, we are inviting you to partake in the [name of Bioblitz] to help us [purpose for holding your BioBlitz].

Our [name of Bioblitz] will run on [month/days/year] from [time – time].

[the site] provides a unique look at [describe what your chosen location has to offer and the habitats it encompasses e.g. are there marshes, forests, are there a diverse number of species, etc. Highlight why it would be valuable to have a person of his/her expertise at your event.]

[If you are inviting members of the general public to your event, ask if the scientist is interested also to give a workshop, lead a guided blitz or help to identify species photos or specimens captured by the volunteer blitzers.]

[Show your appreciation to the scientists and experts you’re inviting by offering them complimentary food and beverages throughout your Bioblitz, on-site accommodations if required, or whatever you have to offer.]

[Details on how to answer you or a designated team member.)

[add logos from partners, sponsors, etc.]

1.3. List of Recommended Equipment and Supplies for I.D. Stations [PDF]

• Adequate light (table top lamps for work surfaces, ambient lighting in a low tent, etc.)
• Microscopes and hand lenses/magnifiers
• Digital camera
• Laptop/tablet
• Field guides/species I.D. books
• Plastic pots/trays/sample jars for specimens
• Tongs, mounting pins, dissecting tools for plants and insects
• Labels to I.D. specimens
• I.D. keys
• Fold up chairs and tables
• Garbage, recycling and composting receptacles
• Power bars/cables, extension cords, USB cables (for digital cameras),etc.
• Mobile internet
• Maps of the property
• Event schedules
• Instructions
• Safety warnings/signs or lists of toxic plants
• Species list
• Tally sheets, blank data recoding sheets
• Clipboards, pens/pencils/markers
• Traps, nets, butterfly nets, dip nets, moth lures,
• First aid kit, access to a phone for emergencies, information to the nearest hospital
• Miscellaneous: tape, paper/notepads, spare tarps, flashlights, rope, knife, binoculars

Other:

• Boats – if required and chosen as a way to survey freshwater and marine habitats
  • Life vests
  • Gasoline and plan for replacement/back-up supplies
• Hip waders for use in wetlands

1.4. Species-Specific Survey Protocols

Here are some resources with information on current survey protocol practices:

Québec:

• Inventaires acoustiques de chauves-souris (French only)
• Protocol d’inventaire des anoures (grenouilles) (French only)
• Protocol d’inventaire de couleuvres (French only)

Alberta:

• Alberta Rare Plant Surveys (English only)

Saskatchewan:

• Amphibian Auditory Survey Protocol (English only)
• Amphibian visual survey protocol (English only)
• Canadian Nightjar (Common Nighthawks, Common Poorwills, and Eastern Whip-poor-wills) Survey Protocol (English only)

Ontario:

• Protocol for the detection and relocation of Freshwater Mussel Species at Risk in Ontario- Great Lakes Area (OLGA) (English only)
• Swiftwatch survey protocol (Ontario) (English only)

Maritimes:

• Swiftwatch survey protocol (Maritimes) (English)
• Suivi du martinet dans les Maritimes: Protocole d’inventaire (French)

1.5. Samples of Tally Sheets

BbC150 blank data sheet page 1 [.xlsx]
BbC150 blank data sheets [.xlsx]
Sensitive Species Report Card [.doc]
Amphibian BioBlitz Data Sheets 2013 [.xlsx]

1.6. Submitting Observations on iNaturalist.ca

For the BioBlitz Canada 150 project: iNaturalist.ca helps to fulfill the requirement by the Department of Canadian Heritage that data be made publicly available, and available through a platform functional in both English and French. iNaturalist also ensures locations of sensitive species remain confidential such that all N3 (vulnerable), N2 (imperiled) and N1 (critically imperiled) species are automatically obscured by a 10km randomized buffer.

1.6.1. Bioblitz Canada 150 Host’s Guide to iNaturalist.ca

Using iNaturalist for BioBlitz Canada 150 pdf
Download square BioBlitz Canada Butterfly Icon
Download BbC150 Project Cover to put at the top of your iNaturalist Project Banner

1.6.2. How iNaturalist Works

inaturalist.ca/pages/getting+started

2. Event Planning

2.1. Event Planning Tools

Here are examples of planning spreadsheets for managing the scientific and public event sides of a bioblitz, kindly provided by Stanley Park Ecology Society and the Royal Ontario Museum. BioBlitz Canada 150 Partners: see documents entitled “BioBlitz Canada planning sheet” and “Ontario Logistics Tracking 2016” in folder “2.1 Event Planning Tools” in the BbC150 Dropbox.

2.2. Getting Sponsors : In-Kind and Otherwise

Consider local environmental groups focused on the conservation of Canada’s biodiversity. Local organizations may not be able to provide a lot of funding, but they could offer contacts, materials, resources, and assistance with the surveying area, and hopefully add their own information table to your event. Look into non-profit environment-based organizations, environmental ministries, national and provincial parks, University and College environmental programs, high school environmental clubs, museums, conservation centres and or local habitat and waterway associations for assistance.

Consider inviting citizen-watch programme representatives, local or from headquarters, to display or offer programming or even conduct a survey.

Consider enterprises that offer services you will be using — your event might make a colourful, locally convincing or “extreme use” testimonial to how well the product or service works! Consider: technical or naturalist instruments; data and telecommunications equipment, services, connectivity; on-line or other media services or outreach channels; transportation, accommodation; a.v. equipment; logistical or event supplies.

Consider enterprises serving complementary interest groups: outdoor sporting equipment or services, physical, mental and spiritual health and personal development; community- and team-building businesses.

2.3. Choosing a Site

Answering these questions will help you better understand the location you are looking for. They can help you establish the right location for your BioBlitz, and the space needed to accommodate the number of people you will invite:

What do you want to sample and survey?

Are you interested in surveying: terrestrial species? aquatic areas and species? under-surveyed taxa that are little known and/or difficult-to-find and identify? a special “star” habitat or taxon or species?

Do you want primarily to: get a species list? collect specimens? develop local citizen scientists’ expertise? excite the wider community about an impressive range of biodiversity? create for the public an experiential celebration of nature?

Considerations for a Site Venue:

2.3.1. Property Accessibility

By road vehicle? By water? On foot? ATVs? Horseback? Other?

Mainly individuals coming and going on their own schedule? Or collectively-timed access via shuttles? Is there public transit access?

Vehicle parking conditions:

• How close is parking?
• Is there enough parking for your blitz’ intended participation?
• Do you need to arrange for more somewhere else?
• Would you need shuttles?
• Is parking an existing lot (gravel/pavement) or will a grass area be delimited and prepared?
• Is parking spacing/rows indicated or would you need markers? or people to direct?

Conditions of the site terrain:

• Is the terrain difficult to maneuver for equipment set-up? Within the area, are there paths or car-accessible roads?
• Is the terrain flat, rocky, steep, marshy, requiring special footwear for intended participants?
• Access for varying mobility levels? Into the site? Within it, different zones of accessibility?
• Is it just narrow hiking trails? Or are there wider spaces for gatherings of groups of different sizes?
• Is there watercraft launch access or docking or mooring?

2.3.2. Appeal and Diversity

One question to consider when choosing your location is whether it will appeal to the scientists and volunteers you are hoping to invite. What are the habitats and species? Are they diverse or rare? Sometimes an area with a diverse range of species can garner interest for there is always the possibility of something new or rare to be discovered. Research the fields of interest of those you’re inviting, as well as the location’s species before making your selection.

On the other hand, the messaging for the event and the fun challenge for participants might be to demonstrate that nature and species can be found in seemingly unlikely locations.

2.3.3. Extent and Boundaries

Choose the amount of space you wish to survey based on the expected attendance and the goals of your bioblitz. If inviting a small group of scientists, you might be interested in a smaller area rather than one with a lot of ground to cover, which is more suitable for large public groups. Keep in mind that the smaller the area, the easier it is to trample plants and other species. In larger areas however, it can be harder to keep track of everyone on the site.

Obvious landscape features can be natural boundaries, both to create a distinct identity for the event in the minds of the participants, and for the storyline/messaging in your outreach about the event. It also can be very practical to limit participants from going astray.

2.3.4. What about Previous Surveys ?

Earlier inventories and studies can help inform the choice of location and time of year.

The goals of the bioblitz will help you decide whether you want to avoid previously surveyed sites or revisit them.

If the goal is to investigate or showcase an under-surveyed area or to find species not previously known to the region, you would choose a location that hasn’t been studied before. Another approach is to hold the event in an area adjacent to the location of a previous bioblitz to expand the survey over the years.

However, if the goal is to monitor changes over time or document the species at different times in the year, a re-survey can be valuable.

2.3.5. Land use

If the land might be targeted for future development, you should consider the goals for holding your bioblitz. If the aim is to maintain a long-term project, then the changing land use will affect the inventory. If change is significant, imminent and certain, then it may be wise to avoid an area that will ultimately no longer house that biodiversity.

However, if the goal of the inventory is to help form a Plan of Action about the habitat or any discovered endangered or threatened species, or to carry out a before-and-after monitoring program to document the impacts to biodiversity, then this may be a worthwhile site.

2.3.6. Facilities

• Are there restrooms? Indoors or outdoors? Who is in charge of cleaning the facilities and supplying toilet paper, soap and paper towels/dryers? Do you need to rent portable toilets?
• Are there electrical outlets and internet access? Are these working? Is there a Wi-Fi password?
• Is the site wheelchair accessible?
• Is drinking water easily accessible? Do you need to supply drinking water?
• Is anyone camping on the site? Are there already campsites? Are campfires allowed? Do you need to get a campfire permit?
• Are there buildings on or close to the site you will be using? Who will open/close them? What will be their designated purpose? Will they be open to the public? To the volunteers only? To the scientists and expert?
• Are there sufficient garbage, compost and recycling bins?
• Does the venue require a proof of liability insurance?

2.3.7. Food and Water

• Are there eating areas already? Do you need to designate extra picnic areas? Do you need extra signage?
• Are there food restrictions (ex. allergies, intolerances, vegetarians) that need to be taken into account?
• Is drinking water easily accessible? Do you need to supply bottled water?
• Are there sufficient garbage, compost and recycling bins?

2.3.8. First Aid, Safety and Emergency Planning

• Are there First Aid services on site already? Do you need to create a First Aid station/tent? Do you have certified volunteers or staff to operate it?
• Is there security already on site? Do you need to hire security officers?
• Are you responsible for the emergency plan? Is it mandatory according to any contract you signed?
• Do you need extra signage related to First Aid, Safety and Emergencies?
• How fast can the emergency services get to your site? How far is the nearest hospital?

2.4. Permissions and Restrictions

Is your site a public or private space? Whom do you need to ask permission to access it? Do you need to allow time to apply for permits for access and/or for collecting specimens? Is there a maximum number of visitors it can hold?

2.5. Volunteers, Vendors/Exhibitors

Some types of organizations you can contact to find volunteers, to staff kiosks and vending booths, to add to your publicity channels, and to help with duties requiring the second official language. And, of course, to participate!

• Schools
• Scouts/Guides
• Other youth organizations
• Colleges/Universities
• Nature Clubs
• Retirement homes
• Community centres
• Artistic community organizations
• New Canadian and Immigrant Associations
• Cultural ethnic community organizations
• Hunting/Fishing organizations
• Sports organizations
• Aboriginal community organizations
• Photography clubs
• Farming community
• Cottage associations
• Office workers, private and public sector

2.5.1. Inviting Volunteers

Some recommendations on how you can involve other organizations in your BioBlitz:

• Invite them to attend the BioBlitz, at the least
• Depending on their interests: are they interested as a group or as individual members to volunteer:
  • Staffing/working at the basecamp
  • Staffing/working at the major stations/stalls/activities
  • Managing the data as it comes in
  • Science lead – proper labeling, working at the ID station
  • Leaders and coordinators for activities for children and adults
  • Assistants and guides for nature walks
  • Assistants and guides for field work
  • Videographers/photographers
  • IT and audio-visual support
• Remember organizations can also undertake tasks behind the scenes or before and after the event itself:
  • Official language roles (translations both written and verbal, announcement speakers)
  • Assistance with advertising and promoting your BioBlitz
  • Planning a project/activity for the BioBlitz
  • Assisting/working as the communications lead, spokesperson for your BioBlitz
  • Someone to coordinate interviews
  • Public support for iNaturalist

2.5.2. Elements of a Letter to Seek Volunteers

[Consider inserting an image – from a past BioBlitz, from the proposed BioBlitz location, species from the area – in the header, in the margin of the body of the letter….]

[an event logo or your logo, if you have one]
[name of your Bioblitz, the city or town and province if not otherwise obvious]
[site of blitz park/property, if different from the name]

[date – month/day/year]

[address of group]

Dear [group title and name],

[or] Calling All Those Who Love Nature…

Are you interested to help with a [flagship/community] event to mark Canada’s 150^th by celebrating our natural heritage? Do you enjoy spending time outdoors, learning about Canada’s wild species?

From/On [ dates – e.g. September 3 – 4 or September 4] we will be holding a [24-hour, etc.] BioBlitz at [location] as part of BioBlitz Canada 150, a Canada 150 Signature project. We would like to invite you to come and lend a hand for this event.

The bioblitz will bring together nature experts and community members to team up for a special citizen science survey of all the living species in the [location] area, and enjoy a gathering of educational and fun activities.

The [name of your BioBlitz] is being held to [why are you having your BioBlitz – e.g. to educate Canadians about Canada’s biodiversity, about their natural heritage, to study the land’s species, etc.] .

[Location] provides a unique look at [appeal to their possible love of nature, telling them what your location has to offer in: diversity, the habitats it encompasses, etc.] .

We need your help to make the [name of your BioBlitz] happen. Please check out the kinds of roles involved below to see if there are any that appeal to your interests and skills.

[List the jobs that you need assistance with – e.g.

• Basecamp tent sign-in/sign-out personnel
• Staffing a station at basecamp
• Supervising activity stations/leading an activity
• Assisting in the field/Assisting on nature walks
• Leading a field survey]

To show our appreciation for your support, we’d be glad to offer [onsite accommodations, meals, beverages, etc., if necessary and if affordable] .

We’d welcome having you play a part in the [name of BioBlitz].

[Name of contact and contact information]

2.5.3. Inviting Vendors and Exhibitors

If your bioblitz is a community event, you may want to invite individuals or organizations to display or sell their products and services. They can also lead an activity!

Assess the space needed and a high traffic-location that would suit vendors and exhibitors.

Consider what equipment and supplies they might need (tent, tables, power cables, connectivity, etc.). Then, either plan how you might provide it, or anticipate their questions by alerting them that they would need to plan to be self-sufficient. You might scout out in advance some possible resources for equipment and supplies.

2.5.4. Elements of a Letter to Invite Vendors/Exhibitors

Model of Participation Form

Model Letter:

[Consider inserting an image – from a past BioBlitz, from the proposed BioBlitz location, species from the area – in the header, in the margin of the body of the letter….]

[an event logo or your logo, if you have one]
[name of your Bioblitz, the city or town and province if not otherwise obvious]
[site of blitz park/property, if different from the name]

[date – month/day/year]

[address of business / foundation / organization]

Dear [title and name],

Are you interested to join a [flagship/community] event to mark Canada’s 150^th by celebrating our biodiversity and natural heritage?

On [date], we will be holding a BioBlitz to [reason for holding the BioBlitz] as part of BioBlitz Canada 150, a Canada 150 Signature project.

We are expecting to bring together [#] from [region/neighbourhood] [highlight types of participants e.g. “of all ages” “including fat bike cyclists” “with a strong involvement in local fishing conservation” “teens from 6 local CEGEPS”]. They’ll team up with nature experts to conduct a special survey of all living species in [location] and enjoy a gathering of educational and fun activities.

The [name of BioBlitz] will last for [two days, a 24 hour span, a day of activities] starting at [time e.g. 8 a.m. on September 4] and ending at [time e.g. 8 a.m. September 5].

[Location name] offers a unique look at [what does the location offer – species or habitat diversity] .

We would like to invite your organization to join our BioBlitz, to help promote the event and to make our participating guests and community members aware of your [services/programme(s)].

We will be pleased to provide you with [whatever you’re offering: e.g. “space for a booth or kiosk” “place in the schedule or activities or presentations”].

To show our appreciation for your support, you will receive [complementary meals/beverages/snacks, onsite accommodations if required for overnight stay, or anything that you can afford to offer] .

We look forward to celebrating Canada’s 150^th anniversary with you.

Sincerely,

[Name of contact person]

[Contact information]

[Attachment: details on the logistical details (e.g. size, space, timing, facilities, amenities such as power or connectivity, map, draft event schedule) and of any costs and option levels.]

2.6. Setting up for your Bioblitz

Assess your needs based on the expected attendance and on what is already available at the site. You may need to rent some equipment: make sure these expenses are included in your budget and that you reserve in advance.

2.6.1. Facilities

• Is there enough parking? Is it close to the site? Do you need to arrange for more somewhere else? Do you need shuttles? Do you need extra signage?
• Are there restrooms? Indoors or outdoors? Who is in charge of cleaning the facilities and supplying toilet paper, soap and paper towels/dryers? Do you need to rent portable toilets?
• Are there electrical outlets and internet access? Are these working? Is there a Wi-Fi password?
• Is the site wheelchair accessible?
• Is drinking water easily accessible? Do you need to supply drinking water?
• Is anyone camping on the site? Are there already campsites? Are campfires allowed? Do you need to get a campfire permit?
• Are there buildings on or close to the site you will be using? Who will open/close them? What will be their designated purpose? Will they be open to the public? To the volunteers only? To the scientists and expert?
• Are there sufficient garbage, compost and recycling bins?
• Does the venue require a proof of liability insurance?

2.6.2. Food and Water

• Are you providing or selling food? To the general public? To the volunteers? To the scientists and experts?
• Are there eating areas already? Do you need to designate extra picnic areas? Do you need extra signage?
• Are there food restrictions (ex. allergies, intolerances, vegetarians) that need to be taken into account?
• Is drinking water easily accessible? Do you need to supply bottled water?
• Are there sufficient garbage, compost and recycling bins?

2.6.3. First Aid, Safety and Emergency Planning

• Are there First Aid services on site already? Do you need to create a First Aid station/tent? Do you have certified volunteers or staff to operate it?
• Is there security already on site? Do you need to hire security officers?
• Are you responsible for the emergency plan? Is it mandatory according to any contract you signed?
• Do you need extra signage related to First Aid, Safety and Emergencies?
• How fast can the emergency services get to your site? How far is the nearest hospital?
• Do you need to do a background checks on volunteers, especially if they will be working with children?
• Do you need for participants to sing in and out? Do you need to take down license plate numbers? (The license plate numbers may help you identify a missing person if a car is left in the parking lot at the end of the day, for example.)

Template Sign-in/Sign-out Sheet [.docx]

LOCATION AND DATE:

Name (First and Last)	Time In	Time Out

 

Template Sign-in/Sign-out Sheet with License Plate Numbers [.docx]

LOCATION AND DATE:

Name (First and Last)	License Plate Number	Time In	Time Out

2.6.4. Check-List of On-site Equipment, Supplies and Communications Tools

You must determine the on-site equipment needed for your bioblitz, and decide what you must borrow or rent. This depends on what is on the site already, on the scale of your event, if there will be kiosks and shows, if there is electricity and running water, and on other factors specific to your event.

You can adapt the list below to your needs and use it as a check-list: [PDF]

• Tents/Pavilions
• Tables and chairs
• Additional Lighting
• Drinking water (jugs, coolers, bottles)
• Portable toilets
• Signage for:
  • Parking
  • Washrooms
  • First Aid/Safety/Emergencies
  • Trailheads
  • Food stations
  • Other?
• Garbage, compost and recycling bins
• Generators
• Audio-Visual/Information Technology Needs
  • Microphones
  • Speakers
  • Videocameras/Videographer
  • Photographer
  • Screen(s)
  • Projector
  • Laptop
  • Internet connection
• Stage/speaking platform with podium
• Barbecues and propane
• First Aid/Safety
  • First Aid kits
  • Emergency phone
  • Tent with certified First Aid providers
  • Allergy medication
  • Emergency plan with nearby hospitals, emergency contact numbers
  • Security officers
  • Warning signs of plants to avoid (toxic/poisonous) with a photo to ensure people are aware of its appearance
  • Warning signs about dangerous animals and if people need to remain in groups
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
• Sign-in sheets at entrance (See 2.6.3. for templates)
• Additional Equipment and Supplies
  • Power bars and extension cords
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Pens/pencils/markers
  • Scissors
  • Spare tarps
  • Flashlights
  • Rope
• See also List of Recommended Equipment and Supplies for I.D. Stations
• Hand-outs
  • Maps of the area
  • Schedules for volunteers, scientists, public
  • List of species in the area or of which you hope for them to survey
  • Species Check lists/tally sheets
  • List of emergency procedures
  • Feedback questionnaire
• Announcement board (inside or outside the basecamp for example) including:
  • The schedule (with potential last minute changes)
  • Maps of the area (with clear legends)
  • Warning signs/lists with names and images of poisonous/toxic plants
  • A list of species to watch out for (predators)
  • A list of warnings about the area (specific areas to watch out for, dangerous areas)
  • Safety procedures and warnings (especially if surveying on water)
  • A list of species in the area that could be surveyed
  • A list of emergency procedures
  • Information about first aid/where the nearest emergency phone is/where the nearest hospital is
  • Information about where and what the extra equipment is (extra clipboards, tape, etc.)
  • Information regarding where they can get water, sunscreen and insect repellent if needed

2.7. Guide to Dignitary and Ministerial Involvement

Protocol guidelines for organizing or attending a special event: http://canada.pch.gc.ca/eng/1452187406843

Includes:

Table of Precedence

Titles

Styles of address

Honours and salutes

Protocol offices

Dress

Grace / benediction

Check list for the organization of special events

2.8. Registrations

You may want to arrange for pre-registration: to limit who can actually find their way to a vulnerable or private site, to get an idea of strength of response beforehand, or to manage participation for limited capacity activities.

Or you may expect that some or most or all participants come on the day; you may need to have on-site registration station(s) set up to handle liability or image or permission-to-follow-up authorization, provide orientation to the site and schedule, or allow for registration into different slots for activities and presentations.

BioBlitz Canada 150 events must be free of charge. However, organizers of these events can charge a fee for certain extra or parallel activities, such as pre-event training workshops, special boat access or tours.

Note that Eventbrite offers a free platform for registrations to free events .

2.8.1. BioBlitz Registration Process

BioBlitz Canada 150 Partners: see documents entitled “BbC150 notes on registration 2017 02 E” and “BioBlitz Registration Process 2017 02 16 E” in folder “2.8.1 BioBlitz Registration Process” in the BbC150 Dropbox.

2.8.2. Forms to have On-Site

• Registration Form
• Sign-in/sign-out sheet
• Waiver
• Image Release Agreement: Photos & Video
• Copyright Release for Photographic Products
• Opt-in/opt-out form (to receive information from CWF)
• Feedback Form

2.9. Schedule of Activities

The scientists/expert, volunteers and participants will want to know the schedule of the event.

Provide clear information on what is going on and how to participate.

A combination of scheduled and drop-in activities for the public is recommended.

Your team of scientists and experts will be able to provide their preferred times for surveying and interacting with the public.

Example of past bioblitz schedules of activities:

From large bioblitzes in Stanley Park, Vancouver or at the Credit River Watershed, Ontario in 2016

Other examples from small bioblitzes in Ontario

2.10. Check-List of Items to Include in Final Report to the Canadian Wildlife Federation

As stated in the BioBlitz Canada 150 service contract, these are the items that must be included in your final report. BioBlitz Canada 150 Partners: see document entitled “2.10. Check-List of Items to Include in Final Report to the Canadian Wildlife Federation” in the BbC150 Dropbox.

3. Marketing Protocols for BioBlitz Canada 150 Events

3.1. Event Promotion Manual

BioBlitz Canada 150 Partners: please find the Event Promotion Manual in folder “3. Marketing Protocols” in the BbC150 Dropbox.

The Event Promotion Manual was produced by the Canadian Wildlife Federation to help ensure project compliance with the Department of Canadian Heritage’s requirements for the BioBlitz Canada 150 project, and to facilitate post-project reporting.

It includes:

• Mandatory Logos
• Branding requirements
• Text and verbal acknowledgement requirements
• Official logos and placement
• Marketing and Promotional Products examples
• Sample Form for Copyright Release for Photo & Video Credits
• Sample Form of Image Release

• A summary of the relevant clauses from Cdn Heritage’s umbrella Agreement for BioBlitz Canada 150 with CWF (including protocol and procedures governing potential participation from federal representatives)

3.2. Mandatory Logos

All the logos are available in Dropbox for BioBlitz Canada 150 partners.

3.2.1. The BioBlitz Canada 150 logo

This logo must be included on all marketing and promotional products to indicate this is an official BioBlitz Canada 150 event. See requirements in the Event Promotion Manual.

This logo can also be used by the independent BioBlitz Canada 150 bioblitzes. Download: .jpg format, .png format.

3.2.2. The official Canada 150 composite logo

This is used to satisfy the Government of Canada acknowledgement. See variations and requirement in the Event Promotion Manual.

3.2.3. Combination logo

This file incorporates the BbC150 and federal composite logo into one easily usable file. See requirements in the Event Promotion Manual.

3.2.4. Canadian Wildlife Federation logo

Required on all marketing and promotion products, as co-presenters of all BioBlitz Canada 150 events, alongside logos of lead event partners. See requirements in the Event Promotion Manual.

 

3.3. Download Templates for Publicity Pieces

BioBlitz Canada 150 Partners: please see section “3.3 Download Templates for Publicity Pieces” in folder “3. Marketing Protocols” in the BbC150 Dropbox.

3.3.1. Communications

Press release templates: Pre-Event, Post-Event

Backgrounder

Speaking Points about CWF

Tips on getting media coverage

Media Advisory

3.3.2. Digital

3.3.3. Social media

3.3.4. Print

Poster
Postcard
Tri-fold Pamphlet

4. BioBlitz Program Ideas

 

This is intended to be a growing document of ideas and alternatives.

Contributions and suggestions are most welcome.

 

4.1. Early Chats with Experts

Generally, chatting informally to scientific colleagues early in the planning stage to think about how they think their research could be benefitted by the provision of ‘many hands’ at a single site over a short period of time is a good idea. For example, looking for ‘historically recorded, but thought to be extinct’ species, seeking new arrivals, etc. And vice versa: asking the community to pose any relevant questions they may wish to answer collaboratively with the scientists.

4.2. Training on Organizing a Bioblitz

Holding a training session for organizations on how to run a bioblitz, while having a list of potential activities that work well at others/previous events, can help.

 

4.3. Extra Opportunities for Scientists

If the scientists are being paid and participating in the event as part of their job in academia or otherwise, the event needs to give them the opportunity to communicate their research to a wider audience and/or give them an opportunity to collect data. If you can help tick these boxes, they usually come along and the interactions happen.

 

4.4. Access to Private Land as an Incentive

Some events have included private land where scientists and naturalists would normally be unable to access (or at least at times when they would ordinarily be inaccessible) and sample. If that can be arranged, it can be a real draw for both groups.

 

4.5. Helpers for Specialists

• Have a non-specialist (member of the public) assigned to each specialist to write down the species identified at each site. This could be done electronically (with provided devices), cell-phonetically, or on paper, and would perhaps be most valuable for species on which the specialist does not specialize.
• If there were assistants to take down a list of species seen at each waypoint, and to take photos of unknown species, each expert could identify many more species, especially in taxa they’re not specializing in. The assistants could have checklists of species expected, either on paper or electronically, and mark down the waypoints at which these species are seen.

 

4.6. Length of the Bioblitz

• Working with a concentrated amount of time can be more difficult to facilitate public participation than if you’re working with a 24-hour period of time. When working with a concentrated amount of time, it can be easier to have activities that engage people through walking through nature or forms of art that are not time consuming.
• When a bioblitz is scheduled for 24 hours or longer, a species count is an activity that will easily get other involved – tally the species found so far, managing the species numbers, etc. These are jobs that one person can do or everyone can have a part in:
  • One person to tally and one to manage the information the others bring them
  • Everyone can keep a tally of the species found and a small group of people can manage the information as it comes in.
  • People are interested in the data collection process and how it works, the different ways to collect the data, what the data collected will be used for, and how they can assist with the process

 

4.7. Identify the desired outcome of the blitz

• This can help you identify the focus of your activities to help reach the chosen outcome
• Teaming up with organizations (possibly with similar desires) provides you with environmental expertise to help create a successful event on the day itself and before in the selection of the site and time of year, and in the planning of activities.

 

4.8. Welcome/Start-up Gathering

• Hold a welcome/start-up meeting with the group on site to review details and goals for the bioblitz
• Review of what to be careful for (hazards, harmful species, getting lost, etc.) and what to do in these situations
• Have as much as you can on hand to loan out to participants (with a sign-out system):
  • Field guides – Apps, photocopies, etc.
  • Handheld GPS units
  • Bug spray, gloves, sunscreen, water refill station (for field work, walks, etc.)
  • Branded water bottle (promo material)
  • Supply a t-shirt or accessory to volunteers and experts to help participants identify them and benefit the most from those involved in the blitz

 

4.9. Instructions and Information for Participants

• Activities and learning outcomes have been facilitated in the field by people leading the groups
• Giving participants a schedule of workshops, teaching them about specific species beforehand i.e. here are some samples (butterfly): hind wings, different parts, etc.
• Sometimes you have to give them the information before going into the field to help them identify the species, the knowledge they need for the survey to be effective, or the information in the field during the survey itself
• Give participants basic introductions, tell them how to use binoculars or specific pieces of equipment that has been supplied for the survey/activities E.g. the activity is looking at plants: participants gather around a plant in the field, an expert or leader teaches them how to use the ID key, teaches ID techniques, instructions, additional information, etc.
• Teach them in the field, hands-on, education them about the ID skills and other field surveying skills for future use on their own time
• Hybrid setting – field work and stations – set up displays (additional tables) focused on butterflies, insects (live species, photos, etc.), have someone there to answer questions and help them decide which groups they want to go out with
• Sit down sessions to discuss topics, species, etc. providing them with the needed information to make an informed decision of which groups they want to partake in. E.g. A butterfly or plant display might intrigue a person when they see what they might find if they are part of that group during the survey period
• Have a combination of materials (equipment – binoculars, ID keys, microscopes, etc.), things that can be handled (live species), things to look at (photos, videos, poster displays, etc.), tutorials, and workshops on what to look for, demystifying how it works, what they can see, how it can be broken down, and the features they can look for – this can be done through documents online before or during the event to help understand ways to identify species/parts of species.
• Tutorial for iNaturalist – YouTube video, instructions online, onsite tutorial, etc.

 

4.10. Activity ideas to facilitate public participation

• Hold Contests
  • Art contests
  • Photography, videotaping, writing a short story, sketching a specific species, etc.
• Scavenger Hunts (on specific species or taxons)
• Invite participants to become species experts – focusing on a specific species/taxon during the blitz
• Invite participants to create a short video on a species they discover, sending it to blitz coordinators at the end of the activity, day or event
  • Focuses them on looking for a select species in their survey area
  • Allows for them to see species in their natural habitat and at their natural daily activities.
• Invite participants to live the life of a scientist
  • Taking exact measurements of something specific, gathering specific information, etc.
  • This make them feel important and involved in the process

 

4.11. Activities tailored toward specific groups:

• When inviting the public, focus on targeting groups like:
  • Scouts/guides groups
  • Rotary, Lions clubs
  • Walking for health groups
  • Scuba clubs
  • Artist groups
• Specific activities can be tailored to a specific group:
  • A cycling safari/trip for a cycling group
  • A badge receiving activity for scouts/guide groups
  • Art interpretation of Canada’s landscape for artists or art enthusiasts
  • Heart healthy walks for work out groups/heart institute or heart health associations, etc.
• If the bioblitz is working with a school (kids/students) you might want to consider tailoring the activities to their curriculum to benefit their education as well as their interest in what you’re surveying.

 

4.12. Hands-on: Collecting Specimens or Data

• People like to be a part of the practical aspects of collecting specimens or data from the field. Public participation appears to be greater in the practical (hands-on rather than theory and ideas) for they tend not to know much about the taxon. People like to collect specimens and see them (ID them with the aids, check them out under a microscope, etc.) This technique can make them feel as though they know as much as anyone else there, while educating themselves about the nature surrounding them. Specific walks and in the field workshops can help with locating the best spots for looking for specific species, making it easier to check them out.
• For collecting specimens (insects or mushrooms, for example):
  • show proper collecting techniques
  • provide nets, sample jars or collection bags
  • Have the group collect the specimen and bring back the scientist to ID. Could also encourage the participants to do this later on throughout the blitz and bring back to the species ID area.
• Assign roles to people as assistants:
  • data logger (using iNaturalist)
  • photographer
  • trap checker
• For some species, a sweep of the area is needed (like searching for snakes in a field) so instruct people on what to look for then line people up and walk the field.
• Build up people’s skills and expertise leading up to the bioblitz (part of the thinking for the Master Naturalist program)
  • months before, a local nature organization can hold workshops to teach ID skills and survey techniques

 

4.13. Deployment Suggestions

4.13.1. Work your levels

• 4 levels of expertise: the taxa experts -either professional or serious amateur (= the ‘specialists’), the advanced naturalists (= the ‘triage nurse’ at base), those somewhat familiar with species (= the ‘medics’ leading cluster sorties out in the field), the willing but newbies at species i.d. (= the medics’ ‘sniffer dogs’!)
• Also, a role for data enterers as super-secretariats for the experts’ i.d. teams at base, or circulating among the middle triage tables or stations.
• Also, someone who may not be especially focussed or knowledgeable can at least “hold the clipboards,” taking a checklist/keeping the tally count in the field
• Encourage everybody to bring their own portable devices with GPS or photo capability, for them to keep with them and use to contribute.

 

4.13.2. Plan for domains of interest

• Think about organizing operations by kingdom or taxa based on interests and skills of the public – e.g. children might be more interested in insects or amphibians than mosses or plants.
• Ask on-line beforehand or upon arrival to gauge participant interest levels
• …or even arrange for sign-up assignments on-line beforehand or on-site upon arrival
• Some kingdoms or taxa can be whole-blitz assignments, with deployments scheduled for different areas across the period of the blitz. Others might be covered by a limited assigned time.
• People might be able to switch.

• Consider having advanced i.d. workshops led by the taxa experts or advanced naturalists for the sortie leaders, either ahead of the event or early in the event.
• Have an intro i.d. workshop for a taxon for newbies on what to look for, led by the advanced naturalists or sortie leaders, followed by the scouting outing

 

4.13.3. Scouting Outings by Cluster

• The experts or advanced naturalists cannot cover every square inch of the property, but clusters can scout the terrain, by assigned sector each to cover over a given time, and periodically to report in to either field camp or central base (including reporting in by hand-held Wi-Fi?)
• As many cluster leaders as can be assembled can each lead a group of 5-10 newbies/scouters. Either they just had an intro i.d. session, or the leader can show or quickly describe what to look out for.
• Each cluster team might have a tally-taker as anchor and a ‘porter’ who can carry a pack of reference material.
• Each cluster goes on an assigned route or area (series of stops at set distances along a trail; GPS points on a grid in a woods; working way around a large field; minimum sample spots on a bay, etc.)
• At each cluster point, the cluster spreads out to survey (e.g. out to limit of earshot or sightlines; out for 15 minutes and then come back to that start point; until the cluster leader calls them back; etc.).
• Cluster leaders might have a set of images of expected mushrooms their scouters can match against and count. They might ask their scouters to photograph each plant with a portable device for an image that captures flowers/alternate versus opposite branching/leaf shape, or to snip a twig tip from each shrub or blade tip from each kind of grass they come across. Leaders might request the photographing of all insects or to (carefully) pick them up in little cases. The leader might also play two frog songs or whistle a target bird call for scouters to listen for.
• Once the cluster team comes back together, they quickly examine for common species and put back any live specimens of the common kind. The cluster leader can be alert to something unusual, and do a quick reconnoitre perhaps to i.d. it on the spot.  If the item is beyond the leader’s knowledge, then that observation can be noted more carefully:  directly onto iNaturalist app, or the image can be sent or taken back to base, and /or specimen taken back to base.
• Then the cluster moves on to the next point.
• There can be an intermediate ‘field unit’ camp, where someone with more knowledge can receive several cluster teams together; again, sorting out the easy-to-i.d. species, doing a trickier i.d. on the spot, or referring items or photos to the experts at base.
• The findings by the cluster scouting outings can go back to the base, or experts can arrange scheduled times to wander and meet up with the scouters to examine their accumulating finds.
• In case an item needs further investigation later, have plenty of elastics and slips of paper and pencils to attach location notes to specimens or little vials; take little text notes on location for each specimen
• Consider having cluster team members tweet discoveries to a feed that displays on a large screen back at centre base, or have a ‘blitz radio show host’ with p.a. system amplifying at centre base to report calls from teams coming in by cell phone.

 

4.13.4. I.D. by Layers or Triage

• Tables, areas of a big tent, rooms, or sections of a lawn each with a sign for each kingdom or even order: Even newbies can lay out specimens at this level --- but always have a triage team for ‘misc’ (what is a slime mold? Is it a moss or a vascular plant?)
• First triage: Save more knowledgeable naturalists by putting newbies to work.  Even those with fairly basic knowledge can be stationed as first level sorters.
• Children can get involved through sorting – e.g. vial holding anything with six legs goes here, gazillion legs there, no legs there….
• Insects can be roughly sorted by order (bee-looking things, grasshopper-looking things, etc.) with an ever-present misc tray

• Twig cluster sorting: opposite there, alternate there, can’t tell there, etc.
• Consider having some larger monitors or screens so that many people can watch as observation photos are loaded and are triaged into categories for the next level to sort.
• Consider having the experts miked (with hip belt speakers?) as they talk through their i.d., maybe with a monitor or screen to show what they’re working on; that way more than a single row of crowded people can watch or listen as they work
• Consider having people out in the field miked, followed by a videographer or someone with video on a portable device, and then display on a screen or listen to in real time (or played back) at base.
• Consider having special quests. Reverse the usual style of each group recording everything they see in a category on a list (each maybe with its rough location). Instead, have all groups go out at a certain time for a particular bird sound, flower, or invasive or scavenger list and then map everywhere on the territory they found it with stickers, pencil, pens, on-line, or with the iNaturalist app. Set a competitive time limit with a prize, challenge dare, or celebrity penalty (pie in the face, sing a song, eat a bug, etc.) if a certain threshold is not found.  O the suspense!

 

4.14. Get people to use the iNaturalist App

• Allows people who don’t know what the species is to upload a photo and let the experts ID it for them online
• Provides feedback to the participant on what they saw, and greatly increases the species tally for the bioblitz (seeing as the scientists cannot get to every area on the property)
• Participants not onsite can log onto iNaturalist.ca at the time of the blitz and help identify species.
• For the guided blitz, get people using the iNaturalist app. The scientist can explain the basics on what to look for (ex. Roll logs to look for salamanders) and have the public take photos of their findings. Regroup to go through and identify the species in the photos. Then get them to use iNaturalist.

 

4.15. Using a Camera

• Consider allowing some of the participants with very little ID knowledge to use a camera (their own, one that’s been supplied, or their phone) to take photos of organisms they see and then upload them to a special site/app where people with good ID skills can go and look at the photos and make an identification. This also has the benefit of including off-site experts who are either too far to participate or unable to participate on the designated day. Instructions should be given to photographers that include what features are useful to photograph to make it easier to identify etc. Ex: iNaturalist app, and the information given about it.
• You could have a photo contest derived from the photos submitted for the species counts.

 

4.16. Social Media

• Using technology and social media to facilitate public participation and interaction: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, iNaturalist…

 

4.17. Butterfly and Moth Surveys

• Meadow walks and a butterfly sweep are two ways to facilitate public participation
• Moth trapping is another way to get the public involved either in the actual trapping process or the surveying process the following day.

 

4.18. Examples from Past Bioblitzes

4.18.1. Ideas from the Cerulean Centre’s first bioblitz

• During the Cerulean Centre’s first bioblitz – Blitz the Bear – they tried a couple different things to facilitate public participation.
  • Partnered directly with two local schools and with the National Park Service. The schools helped promote the event to their students and families and worked with the centre to have their first day as an exclusive opportunity for their participation.
  • In the field, there were morning excursions to send participants out with scientists in small groups. In the afternoon there was a "basecamp" session where scientists were available for questions and people could freely examine specimens, etc. National Park Service staff ran a series of games and events for the participants during this time.
  • The second day of the event was more of a traditional bioblitz, with two-hour field excursions running all day for public participation. It was decided later that it would be better to have activities scaled in at least three different levels of "investment" of time and interest. The two-hour excursions proved to be a good fit for enthusiastic citizen scientists who wanted a fun outing with professional scientists. This was fun for families and for those who are outdoorsy, but not necessarily amateur naturalists. It would have been nice to have events on both other extremes as well.
  • More opportunities for brief activities to capture the activities of those just passing by would be useful, for those who aren’t interested in going out for two hours. In this case, a few more simple activities at basecamp -- a transect of an insect survey, more specimens for public viewing, or a dedicated scientist or two at basecamp could help engage these people. 
  • It was noticed that many people were disappointed with only having the ability to do the single morning and afternoon sessions that were scheduled. Many of the volunteers would have preferred to be immersed in a full-day, "hard-core" trip with scientists. In some ways, the two-hour blocks meant that there was too much time spent shuttling people around the park instead of conducting surveys, which wasn't the best use of the more dedicated naturalists. 

4.18.2. Ideas from an Ontario Bioblitz

• Opening Ceremony – smudging ceremony led by Hank Bailey – an Anishinaabe and elder with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa.
• Split the public into groups with experts – groups were named after plants sacred to the Anishinaabe
• Bird walks, fish seining, insect collections, plant hikes and remotely operated submarines (equipment and devices supplied)
• Use of smartphones, cameras and paper/pencils/clipboards to record discoveries (supplies and equipment supplied)
• Using the iNaturalist App
• Basecamp offered as a way to talk to the scientists, get to know them, learn about their careers, and discuss their most interesting findings.

 

4.18.3. Ideas from a Bioblitz in England in 2013

• Had several tents and marquees on the green at Woolacombe where children’s activities were held, and a trailer where all the results/findings could be collected and posted.
• Invited a number of environmental organizations to participate and put up their stalls and gazebos – additional tables would be required, unless the organization wishes to provide their own. Some of these stalls also had freebies to give away (from their organization – pins, magnets, brochures, hats, posters, etc.).
• Tents for registration, tents for family activities, terrestrial/marine and results trailer.
• There was a timetable of activities and additional tables set up for microscopes and collections made so they could be examined upon returning.

 

4.18.4. Ideas from a Bioblitz in England:

• Created three Discovery Zones that had activities according to their theme.
  • Bug hunters zone had pond dipping and hedgerow surveys
  • Woodland explorers zone had a tree trail and leaf litter sorting
  • Grassland safari zone – a portion of the field had been left to grow for a couple of week before the blitz allowing for the growth to become habitable for specific species creating activities like sweep netting and worm charming competitions.
    • Worm charming consisted in this case of working at getting as many worms out of the ground as possible in the time given either by pushing a garden fork in the ground and wiggling it back and forth, playing (kids sized) musical instruments, or stamping your feet. Garden forks and musical instruments (such as kazoos, tambourines, recorders, etc.) were provided onsite for the participants by the events coordinators. Cups were also provided for the collection of the worms. The area was roped off – which can be done with rope or string, breaking the area chosen into a squared grid.
  • The event sheet had space for children to have it stamped when they’d completed an activity or been through one of the zones – and when completed all three zones, they got a goody bag. Goody bags could have pins/magnets from organizations at the event, booklets about species, stickers, stuffed animal, a small magnifying glass, etc. The contents of the goody bag could be from people sponsoring the event or from organizations promoting themselves at the event.
  • Experts were both in the zones and in the field in order to be on hand and interact with the public, engaging them in the process of science and the exploration of biodiversity.
  • Provide activities for a range of ages, skills and interests
    • Themed arts and crafts
    • Snorkelling to collect information on species in the shallow areas of the shore’s bottom
    • Guided activities
      • Guided walks (look for bats, wildflowers, funguses, etc.)
      • Surveys (trees, plants, lichens, moth trapping, etc.)
      • Bug hunting
      • Pond dipping
      • Partner organizations or museums are often happy to run these activities
    • Self-guided activities
    • Note: Select easily accessible habitats and walking grounds to keep participants safe
      • Sending participants on missions to locate different species, artefacts (shells, leaves, feathers, nuts, etc.) and bring back to basecamp for identification
      • Nature trail hunt with spotter sheets
      • Drop in activities – microscopes, a tank of species examples from pond dipping, nest box building, face painting, wildlife related stands/stalls, competitions, information display area (organization posters, displays, etc.).
      • Data recording apps
    • After dark activities (that can be surveyed at night or the following day)
      • Bat tracking – bat detectors, guided walks
      • Light trapping for moths
      • Listening and recording birdsong at dusk and dawn, or have a dawn chorus walk
    • A mix of both scheduled and drop in activities are good
    • Engage children in activities with incentives – goody bags, stickers, badges, etc.
    • For surveys of the same taxon consider splitting into groups, covering different areas of the field
    • For blitzes on the coast, consider inviting local diving clubs and marine societies. If possible, work with the divers to have them take and show photos/videos back at basecamp.

 

4.18.5. Ideas from the Melbourne BioBlitz 2016

• Moth trapping/spotlighting for nocturnal insects
• Bird walk, lichen walk – cemetery, marine walk, and specific walks based on the focus and goals of organizations/partners/institutes involved in the bioblitz.
• Questagame walk: real-world mobile game where you compete to save life on earth - https://questagame.com/
• A talk on pollinators and floral diversity – other talks about specific topics related to the events location, its species, and or focused on biodiversity and nature.
• Live museum exhibits (stations at basecamp, extra tables for live animal displays, bringing in species that may attract more attention – lizards, salamanders, etc.)
• Water survey
• School day (workshops focused around biodiversity e.g. birds, insects, plants, water – training to take part in backyard bioblitzes
• Several workshops, events, talks, surveys and walks based on: ants, bats, bees, birds, plants, insects, bush tucker (type of bushfood native to Australia), frogs, and water.
• Several workshops, events (e.g. nature days with schools, pop-up exhibitions, etc.), and talks before the bioblitz event to engage the public and educate them on a specific topic – raising awareness about the upcoming bioblitz.
• The idea is to have a variety of activities catering to different levels of interest. Working with partners who are already good at engaging the public is a good start (e.g. museums). Activities can range from workshops and talks, to walks and surveys (or searching for a native berry or food of that specific area). Start by looking into what organizations and partners have to offer – they may have a particular activity or topic they’d like to share with bioblitz participants.
• Consider hands-on activities – participants like the practical aspects of blitzes
• Many participants like the ability to interact with experts and like-minded people
• Many participants viewed the event in Australia as organized and eventful, but not over organized allowing for the event to be relaxing and informative.

Participants often like nocturnal activities because it gives them that “behind-the-scenes” feeling that you get from watching species that normally don’t show up during the day.

4.19. Other Ideas:

• Offering a “passport” to help guide participants around the various basecamp stations and to give them sample questions (suggestions) to guide their discussion with scientists
• Offering handouts to explain iNaturalist and provide ideas for self-guided scavenger hunts for those who do not want to go out on one of the scheduled events.
• Seeing help from local schools with regards to supplies (supplying microscopes, clipboards, etc.) can help bring attention to the event and generate more participation.
• Ask if scientists or park representatives can provide fun visuals like specimens and furs.
• Gather field guides from many sources and make them available for participants.
• See if local businesses might want to provide food for the volunteers – bringing awareness to the event, and possibly garnering more participation through word-of-mouth advertising.
• Work with a local graphic designer to create a logo to catch attention for the event.
• Create an online store or onsite stall with merchandise from the event – t-shirts with the event’s logo on it, pins, magnets, etc.

4.20. Acknowledgements

 

Thank you to Barbara McKean (Royal Botanical Gardens), Claire Goodwin (Huntsman Marine Science Centre), Fred Schueler (Fragile Inheritance Natural History), Gigha Klinkenborg (North Devon Biosphere),  Jack Sewell (Marine Biological Association), James Page (Canadian Wildlife Federation), Jessica Simons (Cerulean Center), Karen Paquette (South Nation Conservation Authority), Naomi Langlois-Anderson (South Nation Conservation Authority), Lingna Zhang (City of Melbourne) and Yvonne Cabuang (Melbourne Water) for their program ideas to facilitate public involvement during a bioblitz.

 

Additional resources credited for their role in generating program ideas are: Get to Know Bio Blitz (http://www.get-to-know.org/bioblitz/what-is/), Guide to Running a BioBlitz (Bristol Natural History Consortium, http://www.bnhc.org.uk/bioblitz/free-downloadable-resources/), The Australian Guide to Running a BioBlitz (http://csna.gaiaresources.com.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/BIOBLITZ_Guidelines_WEB+-ACSA-logo.pdf), The Cerulean Center (BioBlitz Resources, http://ceruleancenter.org/bioblitz), The Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom (https://www.mba.ac.uk/), and The Nature of Cities (Citizen Science in the City, https://www.thenatureofcities.com/2015/03/01/citizen-science-in-the-city-lessons-from-melbournes-bioblitz/).

5.   Resources

5.1.  Links to online species identification resources

5.1.1.    Amphibians and Reptiles

English and French:
Amphibians and Reptiles of Québec/Les Amphibiens et Reptiles du Québec – Québec Biodiversity/La Biodiversité du Québec
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp/herps/herps.html
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp_fr/amphibiens_reptiles/amphibiens_reptiles.htm

Atlas of Amphibians and Reptiles of Québec
http://www.zooecomuseum.ca/en/atlas-of-amphibians-and-reptiles-of-quebec-aarq/
http://www.zooecomuseum.ca/fr/atlas-des-amphibiens-et-des-reptiles-aarq/

Frog Watch
www.naturewatch.ca/frogwatch/
https://www.naturewatch.ca/frogwatch/fr/

Hinterland Who’s Who/Faune et Flore du Pays
http://www.hww.ca/en/wildlife/fish-amphibians-and-reptiles/
http://www.hww.ca/fr/faune/poissons-amphibiens-reptiles/

English Only:
Adopt-A-Pond
http://www.torontozoo.com/AdoptAPond/

• Frogwatch Ontario - http://www.torontozoo.com/AdoptAPond/FrogwatchOntario.asp
• Turtle Tally - http://www.torontozoo.com/AdoptAPond/turtletally.asp
• Urban Turtle Initiative - http://www.torontozoo.com/AdoptAPond/UrbanTurtleInitiative.asp

Dundas Turtle Watch
https://dundasturtlewatch.wordpress.com/

Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas
https://www.ontarionature.org/protect/species/herpetofaunal_atlas.php

Save Our Skinks
http://www.naturenorth.com/Skink/SOS_monitoring.html

Turtle Island
http://www.torontozoo.com/Conservation/tic.asp

Turtle Guardians
http://www.turtleguardians.com/

French Only:
Amphibia-Nature
http://www.amphibia-nature.org/fr/projets/amphibiens-reptiles/

Atlas des Amphibiens et des Reptiles du Québec (AARO)
http://www.atlasamphibiensreptiles.qc.ca/

5.1.2.    Arthropods

English and French:
Canadian Heritage Information Network (CHIN)
http://www.virtualmuseum.ca/edu/ViewLoitLo.do?method=preview&lang=EN&id=7232
http://www.virtualmuseum.ca/edu/ViewLoitLo.do?method=preview&lang=FR&id=7232

espace pour la vie Montréal
http://espacepourlavie.ca/en/insects-arthropods/white-admiral
http://espacepourlavie.ca/insectes-arthropodes/amiral

Hinterland Who’s Who/Faune et Flore du Pays
http://www.hww.ca/en/wildlife/invertebrates/
http://www.hww.ca/fr/faune/invertebres/

Mission Monarch
http://www.mission-monarch.org/mission-monarch-blitz/
http://www.mission-monarch.org/fr/mission-monarch-blitz/

English Only:
Bumble Bee Watch
http://www.bumblebeewatch.org/

Dragonfly Pond Watch
http://www.migratorydragonflypartnership.org/index/welcome

eButterfly
http://www.e-butterfly.org/

Giant Lacewing Conservation
https://www.facebook.com/giantlacewings/

Monarch Larva Monitoring Project (MLMP) – (University of Minnesota) – Monitoring sites in Canada, the US, and Mexico
http://monarchlab.org/mlmp

Pieris Project
http://www.pierisproject.org/

The Manitoba Dragonfly Survey
http://www.naturenorth.com/dragonfly/index.html

Toronto Entomologists Association
http://www.ontarioinsects.org/

French Only:
Entomofaune du Quebec
http://entomofaune.qc.ca/Insectes_du_Quebec.html

5.1.3.    Birds

English and French:
Birds in Québec
http://www.oiseauxparlacouleur.com/birds.html
http://www.oiseauxparlacouleur.com/

Birds of Québec/Ouseaux du Québec – Québec Biodiversity/ La Biodiversité du Québec
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp/birds/Birds.htm
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp_fr/oiseaux/oiseaux.html

Bird Protection Québec/Protection des oiseaux du Québec
http://pqspb.org/bpqpoq/
http://pqspb.org/bpqpoq/?lang=fr

Bird Studies Canada
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer.jsp
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer.jsp?lang=FR

Bird Survey’s on Lake Ontario
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/clls/
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/clls/?lang=FR
http://www.birdscanada.org/birdmon/default/?lang=EN
https://www.birdscanada.org/birdmon/default/main.jsp?switchlang=FR

Christmas Bird Count
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/cbc/
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/cbc/?lang=FR

Christmas Bird Count for Kids
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/cbc4kids/
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/cbc4kids/?lang=FR

Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC)
http://gbbc.birdcount.org/
http://gbbc.birdcount.org/?lang=fr

Hinterland Who’s Who/Faune et Flore du Pays
http://www.hww.ca/en/wildlife/birds/
http://www.hww.ca/fr/faune/oiseaux/

Les Oiseaux du Québec
http://www.oiseauxqc.org/english.jsp
http://www.oiseauxqc.org/francais.jsp

Long Point Bird Observatory

http://www.bsc-eoc.org/longpoint/index.jsp
http://www.bsc-eoc.org/longpoint/index.jsp?lang=FR

McGill Bird Observatory
http://www.oommbo.org/
http://www.oommbo.org/fr/

March Monitoring Program
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/natmmp/index.jsp?lang=EN
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/natmmp/index.jsp?lang=FR

• Great Lakes – http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/glmmp/

           http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/glmmp/?lang=FR

• Quebéc – http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/qcmmp/index.jsp?lang=EN

    http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/qcmmp/index.jsp?lang=FR

• Maritimes – http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/acmmp/index.jsp?lang=EN

        http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/acmmp/index.jsp?lang=FR

Project FeederWatch
http://feederwatch.org/# http://feederwatch.org/fr/

Nocturnal Owl Survey(s)
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/natowls/index.jsp?targetpg=index
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/natowls/index.jsp?lang=FR&targetpg=index

• Alberta
• Atlantic Canada
• British Columbia
• Manitoba
• Northwest Territories
• Ontario
• Inventaire du Québec
• Saskatchewan
• Yukon

Swifts and Swallows
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/ai/chsw/
http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/ai/chsw/?lang=FR

English Only:
Beaverhill Bird Observatory
http://www.beaverhillbirds.com/programs/other-programs/

Birds and Windows Project
http://birdswindows.biology.ualberta.ca/

Calgary Bird Banding Society
http://www.calgarybirdbandingsociety.org/

Ellis Bird Farm
http://www.ellisbirdfarm.ca/

Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory
http://www.lslbo.org/

Mackenzie Nature Observatory
http://www.mackenzienatureobservatory.ca/index.htm

Manitoba Piping Plover Guardians
http://www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/wildlife/spmon/birds/index.html

Mapping Bird/Building Collisions
http://mapper.flap.org/

Fatal Light Awareness Program
http://www.flap.org/

March Monitoring Program

• Prairies – http://www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/ppmmp/index.jsp?lang=EN

Nature Saskatchewan – Last Mountain Bird Observatory
http://www.naturesask.ca/what-we-do/last-mountain-bird-observatory

Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory
http://www.peptbo.ca/

Rocky Point Bird Observatory
http://rpbo.org/

Thunder Bay Field Naturalists
http://www.tbfn.net/

The Pelee Island Bird Observatory
http://pibo.ca/en/

French Only:
Club d’observateurs d’oiseaux de la Haute-Yamaska http://www.coohy.ca/

Club d’observateurs d’oiseaux de Laval
http://www.lavalcool.com/

Club des ornithologues amateurs du Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
https://www.facebook.com/COASLSJ/?ref=page_internal

Club des ornithologues du Bas-Saint-Laurent
http://cobsl.ca/

Club des ornithologues de Brome-Missisquoi
http://www.cobm.ca/

Club des ornithologues de Châteauguay
http://www.clubcoc.ca/p/blog-page.html

Club d’ornithologie de la Côte-Nord
https://ornithologiecotenord.org/

Club ornithologique des Hautes-Laurentides
http://lemoqueur.com/

Club d’ornithologie du Haut-Richelieu
http://www.cohr2013.com/

Club des ornithologues de Québec inc.
http://www.coq.qc.ca/

Club des ornithologues de la Gaspésie
http://www.cogaspesie.org/

Club d’ornithologie de Mirabel (COMIR)
http://www.comirabel.org/

Club des ornithologues de L’Outaouais
http://www.coo.qc.ca/

Club des ornithologues de la region de l’Amiante
http://www.coraoiseaux.org/

Club d’ornithologie de Sorel-Tracy
http://www.ornitho-soreltracy.org/

Club d’ornithologie de Trois-Tivières
https://clubornitho-tr.com/

Club ornithologique Vaudreuil-Soulanges
https://sites.google.com/site/ornithovs/

eBird Québec
http://ebird.org/content/qc/

Groupe des ornithologues de Beauce Etchemin
http://www.ass.beauce.net/gobe/

Québec Oiseaux
http://quebecoiseaux.org/

Site du club d’ornithologie de Longueuil
http://clubornithologielongueuil.blogspot.ca/

Société d’observation de la faune ailée de sud-ouest
http://www.sofaso.com/

5.1.4.    Fish

English and French:
Développement durable, Environnement et Lutte contre les changements climatiques
http://www.mddelcc.gouv.qc.ca/eau/flrivlac/poissons-en.htm
http://www.mddelcc.gouv.qc.ca/eau/flrivlac/poissons.htm

Fishes of Québec/Les Poissons du Québec – Québec Biodiversity/ La Biodiversité du Québec
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp/fish/fish-e.html
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp_fr/poissons/Poissons.htm

Hinterland Who’s Who/Faune et Flore du Pays
http://www.hww.ca/en/wildlife/fish-amphibians-and-reptiles/
http://www.hww.ca/fr/faune/poissons-amphibiens-reptiles/

English Only:
Striped Bass Research Team
http://stripedbass.ca/striped-bass.html
http://trackmyfish.ca/home.html

French Only:
MFFP – Québec
https://mffp.gouv.qc.ca/faune/peche/poissons/index.jsp

5.1.5.    Fungi

English Only:
Mushrooms – Alberta Mycological Society
http://www.wildmushrooms.ws/

French Only:
http://www.mycoquebec.org/bienvenue.php

5.1.6.    Mammals

English and French:
Neighbourhood Bat Watch/Chauves-souria aux abris
http://batwatch.ca/content/bat-species-central-canada
http://chauve-souris.ca/les-esp%C3%A8ces-de-chauves-souris-du-qu%C3%A9bec

Hinterland Who’s Who/Faune et Flore du Pays
http://www.hww.ca/en/wildlife/mammals/
http://www.hww.ca/fr/faune/mammiferes/

Mammals of Québec/Mammifères du Québec – Québec Biodiversity/ La Biodiversité du Québec
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp/mammals/Mammals.htm
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp_fr/mammiferes/mammiferes.htm

English Only:
Bat Monitoring Program at Pinery Provincial Park
http://pinerypark.on.ca/bats.html

Project Squirrel – Canada and US
http://www.projectsquirrel.org/index.shtml

Urban Bat Project
http://www.highparknaturecentre.com/?doing_wp_cron=1486049806.4292919635772705078125

Wild Whales
http://wildwhales.org/

French Only:
Écureuil roux
https://mffp.gouv.qc.ca/faune/especes/piegees/ecureuil-roux.jsp

Forêts, Faune et Parcs
http://mffp.gouv.qc.ca/la-faune/especes-fauniques/

Groupe Chiroptères du Québec
https://groupechiropteresquebec.org/les-chauves-souris-2/

Les Chauves-souris du Québec
http://www.mffp.gouv.qc.ca/faune/especes/chauves-souris/index.jsp

5.1.7.    Plants

English and French:
Evergreen
https://www.evergreen.ca/
https://www.evergreen.ca/fr/

Plant watch (English and French)
www.naturewatch.ca/plantwatch/
https://www.naturewatch.ca/plantwatch/fr/

English Only:
Alberta Native Plant Council
http://anpc.ab.ca/

Alberta Plant Watch
http://plantwatch.naturealberta.ca/

Garlic Mustard Field Survey
http://www.GarlicMustard.org

French Only:
Fleurs sauvages du Québec
http://www.fleursduquebec.com/

Jardin thématique
https://mlpaysagiste.com/jardin-thematique/indigene-au-quebec/

Flore du Québec
http://floreduquebec.ca/recherche.php

5.1.8.    Habitats

English and French:
Freshwater Watch
https://freshwaterwatch.thewaterhub.org/
https://freshwaterwatch.thewaterhub.org/fr

Ice Watch
www.naturewatch.ca/icewatch/
https://www.naturewatch.ca/icewatch/fr/

Uncover your Creeks
https://www.evergreen.ca/our-impact/greenspace/restoring-urban-watersheds/uncover-your-creeks/
https://www.evergreen.ca/fr/

English Only:
Alberta Lake Management Society
http://alms.ca/

Coast watchers
http://www.lakehuron.ca/

Lake Partner Program
http://www.desc.ca/

French Only:
Cartographie des habitats fauniques
https://www.mffp.gouv.qc.ca/faune/habitats-fauniques/cartographie.jsp

5.1.9.    Other

English and French:
Québec Biodiversity/La Biodiversité du Québec
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp/introe.html
http://redpath-museum.mcgill.ca/Qbp_fr/introfr.html

Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative
http://www.cwhc-rcsf.ca/
http://fr.cwhc-rcsf.ca/

Centre de données sur le patrimoine naturel du Québec
http://www.cdpnq.gouv.qc.ca/zoologie-en.htm
http://www.cdpnq.gouv.qc.ca/zoologie.htm

Nature New Brunswick
http://www.naturenb.ca/
http://www.naturenb.ca/fr/

Northwest Territories – Environment and Natural Resources Department
http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/
http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/fr

Parks Canada_Citizen Science (English and French)
http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/waterton
http://www.pc.gc.ca/fr/pn-np/ab/waterton

Prince Edward Island – Environmental Department
https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/topic/communities-land-and-environment
https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/fr/sujet/communautes-terres-et-environnement

Worm watch (English and French)
www.naturewatch.ca/wormwatch/
https://www.naturewatch.ca/wormwatch/fr/

Yukon – Environmental Department
http://www.env.gov.yk.ca/
http://www.env.gov.yk.ca/fr/

English Only:
BC Nature
http://www.bcnature.ca/

Big Lake Environment Support Society
http://www.bless.ab.ca/index.html

Crooked Creek Conservancy
https://crookedcreekconservancy.wordpress.com/

Early Detection & Rapid Response Network Ontario
http://edrrontario.ca/index.php/about/

Long Point Basin Land Trust
http://www.longpointlandtrust.ca/

Nature Alberta
http://www.naturealberta.ca/

Nature Canada
http://naturecanada.ca/

Nature Manitoba
http://www.naturemanitoba.ca/

Nature Newfoundland and Labrador
http://naturenl.ca/

Nature Nova Scotia
http://naturens.ca/

Nature Saskatchewan
http://www.naturesask.ca/

Nunavut – Environment Department
http://www.gov.nu.ca/environment

Ontario Nature
https://www.ontarionature.org/

Ontario’s Invading Species Awareness Program
http://www.invadingspecies.com/

The Edmonton Nature Club
http://www.edmontonnatureclub.org/

French Only:
MFFP - Quebec
https://mffp.gouv.qc.ca/faune/especes/index.jsp

Nature Québec
http://www.naturequebec.org/accueil/