The Parks and Recreation Department is hosting a BioBlitz’s on September 28, from 9:30 a.m.– 12:00 p.m. at Everett N. Eddie Souza Park & Community Garden as part of the National Parks for Pollinators campaign, which is aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of pollinators and positioning parks as national leaders in advancing pollinator health and native habitat.  

Pollinators are a vital component of our ecosystem, and an essential link to the world’s food supply. According to the White House’s Pollinators Health Task Force, during the last 30 years, the United States has seen a steady decline of pollinators (such as bees, bats and butterflies) at an alarming rate of 30 percent annually — making it vital to take action on pollinator protection.  
 
A BioBlitz is an event where community members work with park staff to create a snapshot of the variety of wildlife that can be found in the area. We use an app called iNaturalist to take pictures of plants, insects, and animals to see what wildlife is present in the park on this day and provide us with more information about pollinators, which are essential to our ecosystem. This information will help us understand how we can better protect pollinators and other important wildlife in our community. During the event, there will be guest speakers talking about the types of pollinators found the garden and children activities as well. 

Special Guests:

BioBlitz.Club co-host - Hosts citizen science events all over the south Bay Area. 

Santa Clara Valley Beekeepers Guild - Native Bee Talk by Elizabeth Victor

Santa Clara County Master Gardeners - Pollinator enthusiasts will help guide small groups

To participate at this event: 
FIRST REGISTER to attend BioBlitz Saturday, September 28, 2024, 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.  
THEN JOIN iNaturalist and start practicing in your back yard or local parks