In celebration of BioBlitz, students and faculty from ULM’s biology program will gather at the Charles Allen–Ouachita River Nature Preserve on Oct. 25 for a day-long race against the clock to identify and record as many species as possible.

This family-friendly event, beginning at 8 a.m., is open to nature enthusiasts of all ages. Participants can join hikes guided by ULM’s biology graduate students and faculty to observe and document various organisms. Each hike is dedicated towards a particular set of species such as birds, reptiles and fungi.

For students, BioBlitz is a “living classroom,” offering hands-on experience alongside local experts and faculty in field research and species identification. Using field guides and the iNaturalist app, students will contribute to a living database of our local ecosystem. Afterwards, the Plant Ecology Lab will tally the species from these submissions.

“It is going to be a beautiful day in the woods along the Ouachita River,” biology professor Joydeep Bhattacharjee said. “I encourage everyone to be a part of this one-day event and learn about the unique biodiversity that is right in our backyard. You are going to love the hiking trails and kids will love the fun activities we have for them on site.”

This is your chance to contribute to a living database of our local ecosystem and create memories that will fuel passion for aspiring biology students.