Last fall, I had the pleasure of attending my first BioBlitz near Asheville, North Carolina. A BioBlitz is defined as an intense period of biological surveying in an attempt to record all the living species within a designated area. Usually, this is done by groups of scientists, naturalists and volunteers who conduct a thorough field study over a 24-hour period.
A project of this magnitude takes a lot of planning and organization. Most BioBlitzes are held in places that have some special status that makes conservation or preservation a priority. For instance, a conservation organization such as the Nature Conservancy may have purchased a property because it contains rare ecosystems, which in turn may contain unusual plants or animals that have not been scientifically described. Further investigation is warranted, and that is where a BioBlitz comes in. A BioBlitz provides a lot of general information that gives some idea of the possibilities for more in-depth studies. They also help land managers determine the conservation status of the property.
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM CDT THIS EVENING...
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 106 expected.
* WHERE...Much of Central Alabama.
* WHEN...Until 8 PM CDT this evening.
* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat
illnesses.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of
the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and
pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any
circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible
and drink plenty of water.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in
shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat
should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an
emergency! Call 9 1 1.
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