The Society for the study of flies (Diptera)

I hope members won't mind me posting this up on the forum.

National BioBlitz Programme : 14 locations across the UK, May - August 2010

I'm working on behalf the of Bristol Natural History Consortium, who are co-ordinating this year's National BioBlitz Programme. I'm sure you may have heard of BioBlitzes, but if not, in simple terms they're 24hr large-scale recording events, which are a great way of really engaging the public with biodiversity in their local area. Between May and August 2010, BioBlitzes are being held in 14 locations across the UK (for details see link below) and as it's International Year of Biodiversity, we're hoping to generate real engagement and excitement about the project - you can look at a video from the 2009 Bristol BioBlitz at www.bioblitzbristol.org.uk, which gives a really good idea of how the events can work.

Fundamental to a BioBlitz are the natural scientists, biologists, teachers, and enthusiasts who volunteer their time and expertise by leading the public on biodiversity surveys.  The events cannot happen without ‘Naturalists’ and 'Guides' in each specialist field... and this is what brings me to the Dipterists Forum. 

We are really keen to involve DF members across the country with the National BioBlitz, and are seeking experts for all of the events - details of where and when these will be happening can be found on http://sciencecitybristol.com/in-the-ci … litz-2010/ (a couple of them are still to be confirmed). If you would be interested in coming to any of the events as an expert on diptera (or insects more generally), in having a further chat about what is involved or recieving some more information, then do drop me an email via the forum. If you like what you hear already, you can also register your interest and experience directly at http://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/bnhc/bioblitzuk , where you'll be allocated to an event, and then the local organiser will be able to give full details of how the event will happen. If you have any associates or colleagues across the country who may be interested, then do pass on my information. BioBlitzes really are a brilliant way to engage the public with biodiversity and I would be very grateful for any thoughts, enthusiasm, or just questions that may be useful to you.

Many thanks for reading, I look forward to hearing from you.

Paul Hurley,

National BioBlitz Programme / BNHC

Bristol Natural History Consortium is a collaboration between Avon Wildlife Trust, BBC, Bristol City Council, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Environment Agency, Defra, Natural England, University of Bristol, The University of the West of England, Wildscreen, and Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust . It is a registered Charity: 1123432. Further information about Bristol Natural History consortium is available at bnhc.org.uk.