BioBlitz event slated

Join MetroParks of Butler County as a volunteer-scientist to identify as many species of wildflowers as possible during this community science program, BioBlitz — Native Wildflowers on May 14.

A BioBlitz is an event that focuses on finding and identifying as many species in a given time in a specific area. With the focus on native wildflowers for this BioBlitz, let’s see how many species there are at Indian Creek MetroPark - Springfield Road Area.

To prepare for this program, download the free iNaturalist app from the Google Play or App Store. To learn more about iNaturalist, visit https://www.inaturalist. org/. For anyone who may not have access to a smartphone, plant guides will be available to assist with plant identification.

There is a variety of trail difficulty. Three groups will explore different areas of the park utilizing two trails. One route is relatively flat and just under a mile in length with moderate difficulty including some roots and possible mud after rainfall. The second route is flat in some areas, but also includes stairs, inclines, and declines of moderate difficulty. This trail is also under a mile in length.

Registration is required for this program at www.yourmetroparks.net. Due to the scientific nature of this program, there is an age requirement of 10 years or older, and participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

The event will be from 9 a.m. to noon May 14 at Indian Creek MetroPark, Springfield Road Area, Mayer Picnic Shelter, 6500 Springfield Road.