Alberta Wilderness Association hosting bioblitz event at Elkwater June 8

By Medicine Hat News on May 28, 2025.

The Alberta Wilderness Association and partners will host a “bioblitz” in the Cypress Hills, an opportunity to learn more about the natural history of this park.

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park is a unique ecosystem. It was not covered by glaciers when most of the surrounding land was locked in ice, said AWA, which makes it home to many unique species.

“A bioblitz is a great opportunity to improve our understanding of the ecology and biodiversity, while engaging people with nature and citizen science projects,” said Ruiping Luo, conservation specialist with Alberta Wilderness Association.

A bioblitz, explains AWA, is a survey of the plants, animals and other species in an area, with the goal being to document as many different species as possible within the short period of time. To this end, booths and exhibits will be set up at the Learning Centre in Elkwater, showcasing the work of experts and organizations on June 8.

Experts will lead short hikes and activities, where visitors can learn about ecology, geology and organisms in the area, as well as help photograph and identify species they encounter.

Several more activities will allow people to get involved, such as pond dipping, where visitors can examine the aquatic organisms from nearby ponds and help build an aquarium. Walks and activities are scheduled throughout the day, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Those interested can join the iNaturalist event, or sign up to take part at albertawilderness.ca.