Bioblitz at Congaree National Park to feature wide range of activities
May 13, 2016
Friday, May 20 and Saturday May 21, 2016
A cast of characters will soon converge at Congaree National Park. Scientists, with binoculars in hand; students, gazing intently at the treetops; a Native American storyteller, with mesmerizing tales of the natural world; prominent historical figures John James Audubon and Rachel Carson, bringing the past alive; all part of a very special event focused on all things birds.
Wings Across South Carolina – a Bioblitz will take place on Friday, May 20 and Saturday May 21. Bioblitz is a nationwide effort to engage visitors and youth with citizen science and education in their parks. As a regional showcase for Bioblitz, National Park Service and State Park Service sites in South Carolina are working together to make it a statewide event, and a weekend to remember.
A wide range of activities will be offered as part of the event. Several special guests will showcase the natural and cultural world with programs to include storytelling, living history, photography and music. Guided hikes will explore the great outdoors and the primeval forests of Congaree National Park. The Messenger, a riveting film which highlights the plight of songbirds across the United States will be premiered during the event. An exhibit area will host a wide range of booths and displays and will include live birds of prey, featured artists, and a number of special guests. Scientists will be on hand to work with park visitors to observe and actually collect data.
“We are really excited to host this event,” says Congaree National Park Superintendent Tracy Stakely, “It truly is a collaborative effort, with a lot of park partners and community involvement. We encourage everyone to come out and participate.”
Wings Across South Carolina – a Bioblitz is part of National Park Service Centennial celebrations. The event is open to the public and is free of charge.
For more information about the Bioblitz at Congaree National Park, call 803.647.3970 or visit www.nps.gov/cong.
Celebrate the Centennial of the National Park Service in 2016! The centennial will kick off a second century of stewardship of America’s national parks and engaging communities through recreation, conservation, and historic preservation programs. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/subjects/centennial. Find Your Park at www.findyourpark.com.
