FT 3 - Pollinator BioBlitz at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park: A Partnership Between the Applied Ecology Section and Colorado State University

Trip Overview
The Applied Ecology section of ESA has historically hosted BioBlitz opportunities, where members can participate in rapid species diversity inventories in areas around the conference location. This year, the Section pairs up with Colorado State University to host a BioBlitz centered around pollinators at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. The Applied Ecology Section has the overall mission of taking ecological principles and applying them to real-world scenarios. BioBlitzes, especially within managed areas such as National Parks, provide an optimal opportunity to apply species diversity questions to areas of conservation and management priority. Participants will not only learn some basic principles related to pollinator biology, but they will also meet with park staff to discuss resource management issues of concern, participant in rapid species inventories of bees and butterflies within pristine alpine meadow habitat, learn more about citizen science opportunities in and beyond National Parks, and enjoy the Pacific Northwest's ecosystems and protected areas. Participants will learn more about pollinators and network with other ESA members through this field trip - expect opportunities to try out new tools/technology and learn more about critical species like bees and butterflies!

Equipment and Attire
Participants of this field trip should pack to be at the National Park all day -- this is within a ~2 hour drive from the Convention Center, and people are willing to depart early if needed but should plan to arrange their own transportation if needed. It is strongly recommended that participants wear comfortable, hiking appropriate clothing, and bring a backpack to carry personal items such as food and water. Once at the park, participants can select sampling locations based on their hiking/activity preferences; there will be opportunities right next to a visitor center with accommodations such as food, water fountains, and flushable toilets if participants do not want to hike. Participants are not required to bring any field sampling equipment themselves -- all of these materials will be provided by the Section and Colorado State.

Field Trip Fee is $100 per person.