Bighill Creek Preservation Society – BioBlitz 2024
When: June 9, 10:00am – 4:00pm (earlier access by permission only)
Where: Hutchinson Conservancy Lands under easement to Nature Conservancy Canada, north of Big Hill Springs Provincial Park. The approximately 800 acres of conservancy lands lie west of RR 34 and cross a forested coulee with grasslands and aspen parklands on either side. The range of eco regions found here contribute to the area’s rich biodiversity.
Access: From Hwy 567, turn north at RR 34, right across the from the entrance to the park. Beware, as this is a dangerous turnoff due to traffic. Drive north past the lake on the west, to the top of the hill. We will park in pasture land at the top. Watch this space for a map, coming soon.
Discussion: BCPS is privileged to be granted access to this private conservancy for a day of exploration and survey through photography and the iNaturalist program. A land owner and birder Susan Church, will be available to help guide us through the day. A highlight may be a pair of Trumpeter Swans and their cygnets, but many other interesting plants and animals will also be found.
Required: In order to have your observations recorded you will need INaturalist app on your smart phone. It is free to download and collates everyone’s observations on the BioBlitz day. When you search the app store on your phone, the correct app looks like the one in the image below. Once you have it downloaded, look for the Bighill Creek Bioinventory listed under Projects . Join the project and any observations you make on the day of the blitz will be recorded under the project.
Also: Please remember that you will be on private lands and treat them with respect. No dogs will be allowed as cows with calves occupy these lands, along with wildlife. BCPS will have an information table and water available at the parking area. There are no toilets, except natural ones, so please be prepared. Toilets are available at nearby Bighill Springs Provincial Park
More instructions to follow.