Recently, some unique plant, animal and fungi species were observed at the Freeman Environmental Education Center for the first time. The discovery came during the Bioblitz event that brought together AAPS kids alongside community volunteers and partners from Washtenaw County Parks, Washtenaw County Conservation District and the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office.
Coert Ambrosino is the AAPS Environmental Education Program’s lead teacher. He says it was inspiring to see the intergenerational exchange as adults and kids closely examined Freeman’s natural areas. “The adults were enthused to see young people getting excited about studying local biodiversity,” Ambrosino said. “While the kids benefited from the identification skills and knowledge of the adult team leaders.”
One adult participant noted that kids have incredible observation skills, and they often notice small things that adults might miss. Over 350 total observations were submitted to iNaturalist, with more than 175 species documented. Check out the biodiversity data gathered during the event here.
The event created an amazing data set that provides a snapshot of biodiversity on site at this point in time. In addition to the positive finds, at least one invasive species that had not previously been identified on the property was found. Amborsino says all of this information is useful in guiding continuing restoration-based education efforts on site.
The event also provided a great opportunity for interested community members to learn more about the Freeman Environmental Education Center, including volunteering and stewardship opportunities, and served as a reminder that members of the public are invited to visit the grounds and utilize the trail system of this AAPS natural area outside of schoolday program times.
Another Bioblitz event is likely to be planned again in the future. Ambrosino recommends that teachers and stewardship groups that support other AAPS natural areas consider this type of activity as a way to promote engagement and care for these special places.
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