PLAINS — Grab your magnifying glass and prepare to explore nature at Jimmy Carter’s Boyhood Farm! On March 24 and 25, the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site hosts a BioBlitz. This partnership project brings scientists, naturalists, and volunteers together to identify and document as many species as possible in a short time frame. Aspiring scientists of all ages are invited to join in exploring and identifying the species in the park. All events are free and will be held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm.
During its 2016 centennial year, the National Park Service hosted over 100 BioBlitz events throughout the United States. The Jimmy Carter National Historic Site is excited to continue the exploration by hosting its own celebration of biodiversity right here in Plains.
Since its establishment in 1987, the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site has never undergone an official species inventory study. Therefore, the main goal of this citizen-science project event is to collect and document as much biological data in this two-day period as possible. Visitors will have an opportunity to see collection processes first-hand and help with identification using the digital app iNaturalist. Information and photos collected will be put into a biodiversity database for the park.  Whether you have a couple of hours or a full day, there will be activities to engage the whole family.
Looking for a unique way to travel to the BioBlitz?  The SAM Shortline excursion train will be making an afternoon stop at the Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm on both days.  For train information, visit www.samshortline.com.
The Friends of the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site is a proud sponsor of this upcoming BioBlitz.