Audubon International kicks off BioBlitz competition

Environmental nonprofit Audubon International has launched the second annual BioBlitz, a free program for golf courses across the world, which will run from Earth Day, April 22, to International Migratory Bird Day, May 14, the company announced in a press release.

BioBlitz is a species-counting competition designed to create awareness among golfers and the general public about the environmental value of the habitats supported by golf courses. The program is open to any golf course worldwide, including those unaffiliated with Audubon International.

“A BioBlitz is a great way for golf courses to bring naturalists and families out to see the natural beauty golf courses provide in their towns,” said Doug Bechtel, executive director of Audubon International.

Last year’s participants recorded 3,560 total species, representing more than 1,592 plants and fungi and 638 wildlife species, for a total of 2,230 unique species identified.

A golf course may invite any number of participants such as golfers and their families, local environmental organizations, youth groups, community members and local experts to count plant and animal species located on the property. Awards will be given in the categories of Most Species, Most Participants and Best Photo. Following BioBlitz, Audubon International will compile the lists of plant and animal species recorded and report on the findings.

To register for BioBlitz 2016 and receive your free toolkit, please email Tara Donadio at tara@auduboninternational.org. The deadline to register is April 20th.