Project, BioBlitz and iLCP

My Artist-In-Residence Program project proposal was to compare landscapes from images taken around the the time of the Park’s dedication in 1915 to the same landscapes today.  Interesting project for me.  Changes really aren’t extensive, mostly reforestation, and some succession from grass meadows to shrubbery.  Generally less snow cover on peaks, but that could be due to minimal snow fall last winter and a warm spring and summer as much as to climate change.

BioBlitz is neat; second session this afternoon.  In a BioBlitz, scientists and helpers do a 24 hour diversity study, finding as many different species as possible.  National Geographic and the iLCP (the International League of Conservation Photographers –  www.ilcp.com ) are participants with many local scientists.

Six iLCP members gave a very interesting presentation in the evening. Although the imagery was great, there was more focus on the conservation activities, including projects on fishing cats in Thailand (Morgan Heim, Colorado), the impact of the border wall on wildlife at the Texas/Mexico border (Krista Schlyer,  DC), working on conservation projects with young people (Kevin Fitzpatrick, Asheville, NC), highlands and frogs in South America (Joe Riis), human wildlife interactions (Karine Aigner), and macrophotography combined with an international net-based program at www.meetyourneighbours.net (yes the “u” is correct and it is net not com), that explores the more common animals and plants that you can see in your neighborhood.

Good mix of real science with public education and fun.  I did a workshop with youngsters on “Create a Creature”  a lesson on adaptation that seemed particularly appropriate to activities on biodiversity.

Finally got some decent light and skies after a storm.

Hallett’s Peak from William White Cabin, Rocky Mountain National Park.

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