Come Discover Marsh Creek’s Wild Side
Sept. 25 noon to Sept. 26 2pm
An opportunity for connection and collaboration with all those who care about nature.
Picton’s Marsh Creek will be part of the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s Great Canadian Bioblitz, September 25 and 26, as one of only five Bioblitz projects across Canada selected for funding. Organized by Prince Edward County Field Naturalists (PECFN) and Feral Folc in partnership with the South Shore Joint Initiative, Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory, Friends of Delhi Park, VTLA Studio and Trees for PEC.
What’s a ‘Bioblitz’?
A ‘bioblitz’ is a 24-hour event that invites residents, visitors, naturalists and nature lovers of all ages and experience levels to work collectively as community scientists to observe and document the remarkable biodiversity of a specific place using the iNaturalist app.
Anyone can participate and all observations documented will contribute to a better understanding of overall ecosystem health while supporting one of Canada’s largest community science initiatives. This collaboration and recording of local plants, animals, insects, fungi and more is intended to build local knowledge, strengthen relationships and lay the groundwork for ongoing community stewardship and ecological monitoring along Marsh Creek.
The Bioblitz is FREE to attend and will offer iNaturalist training, informative learning materials about local wildlife, drop-in exploration and activities for all ages, as well as scheduled walks, workshops and conversations on specific themes and species. No previous experience necessary, just curiosity and a willingness to slow down and look a little closer.
Your goal for participation – to record as many different species of flora, funga and fauna you can find over the course of 24 hours spent exploring outdoors!
Where?
The Marsh Creek Community Bioblitz iNaturalist project study area follows Marsh Creek from Glenwood Cemetery, through Delhi Park, to Picton Bay. Already, the iNat project has 84 observers who have contributed 381 observations representing 191 species. This beloved green space in the heart of Picton is home to wetlands, a creek, meadow and mature tree canopy, all providing essential habitat and an ecological corridor for wildlife.
Our base camp will be located in Delhi Park, at 7 Lalor Street, Picton.
Program
Event organizers and volunteers will be on-site Friday 11:30am to 9pm and Saturday 7:30am to 2pm to welcome you, offer support with iNaturalist, and share information, resources, and expertise.
Stay tuned as we finalize the schedule and confirm attending experts!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this free?
Yes, the event is FREE for everyone to enjoy!
Is there parking on-site?
Yes, there will be free on-site parking located at 7 Lalor Street.
Will there be washrooms?
Yes, there is a portable washroom on-site.
What happens if it rains?
The event is rain or shine. It will only be cancelled if there is extreme weather
How should we dress?
We recommend closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and long pants with socks for ticks.
If the forecast calls for rain, plan accordingly.
Can I bring snacks?
Yes! Feel free to bring your own reusable water bottle and snacks, if you’d like.
Should I download the iNaturalist phone application ahead of time?
We do recommend downloading the iNaturalist and eBird apps at home prior to the event. If you have difficulty with this, our volunteers will be happy to assist you.
I have a bunch of field guides at home, can I bring them?
You can definitely bring your favourite field guide. We’ll also have some handy, along with other resources to share.
Could I get a copy of the final report?
We’ll be issuing a full report on the species observed which will be made available here in early October.
iNaturalist observations along Marsh Creek will continue to be recorded in the Marsh Creek & Delhi Park iNaturalist project
Join the nationwide effort to record biodiversity
from coast to coast to coast.
Registering for the Bioblitz helps us anticipate attendees and allows us to update you on potential weather cancellations as well as sharing the final report. It’s recommended but not required.
Contact us
If you require accessibility support or have any questions, email us at: feralfolc@gmail.com
“This isn’t just about species identification. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the historical and cultural relationships with the Marsh Creek valley landscape and the waters connecting what is now known as Picton Bay and East Lake, on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee Peoples.”
– Becky Lamb, Feral Folc
