Thanks for your interest in the 2023 Macaulay Honors College BioBlitz! Please fill out the form below so we can gather information. Note: If you are joining us as an assistant to one of our taxon leaders, you can disregard the permit question.
What does it mean to be a taxon leader?
It means that you commit to work with a group of Macaulay sophomores to survey areas of Prospect Park and identify species in your assigned taxonomic group. Taxon leader responsibilities include:
- Being at the BioBlitz two or more three-hour shift
- If necessary, finding other experts to be team captains and lead extra teams in your taxonomic group (especially if you can’t be there on both days) or others who can be your assistants
- Providing a very brief (less than 100 words) statement of methodology for observations at the BioBlitz
- Collecting data both on paper and using the app iNaturalist. You may designate students on your team for these tasks.
- Submitting your paper data to Kelly O’Donnell at the end of the BioBlitz.
- Being available for a planning zoom or phone call with Kelly O’Donnell by August 10
You should also plan to attend (to the extent that it is possible for you) a site visit to Prospect Park.
What will you do to help me be a taxon leader?
We will work with you to determine your survey area, team size, and equipment needs. We handle all arrangements with the host organizations, student logistics, provide needed supplies, and collect appropriate safety waivers.
What’s the goal of this event?
We have a two-fold goal for this event. One: This is an educational opportunity for Macaulay students to get out in the field with practicing naturalists/scientists and to learn through hands-on work. Two: This event will provided a biodiversity data set for the park as we count as many species as possible on the grounds.
