Delhi Park and Marsh Creek will be a highlighted 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, the Bioblitz is an opportunity for connection and
collaboration with all those who care about nature.
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. The Delhi Park and Marsh Creek Community Bioblitz iNaturalist project
study area follows Marsh Creek from Glenwood Cemetery, through Delhi Park to
Picton Bay and already has 84 observers that have contributed 381 observations
representing 191 species. This beloved greenspace 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.
“PECFN is delighted to host this bioblitz and grateful to the Canadian Wildlife
Federation for awarding us one of only five grants across Canada. Marsh Creek and
Delhi Park are loved by residents and visitors alike, and this gives us a wonderful
opportunity to discover just how much life this landscape supports.” – Gerry Jenkison,
PECFN President
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.
“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
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, and
scheduled walks, workshops and conversations on specific themes and species.
Pre-registration for workshops is recommended. No previous experience necessary,
just curiosity and a willingness to slow down and look a little closer.
Full program and registration details will be posted at pecfieldnaturalists.org and
through participating organizations. For more information and to get involved contact
feralfolc@gmail.com.
