Driftless Area BioBlitz

The Driftless Area Bioblitz is now being presented by The Nature Place La Crosse! Please visit their website and connect with them on Facebook to learn about upcoming events!

The Driftless Area BioBlitz project started out as a simple idea by Vicki who wanted to get people to go outside and get excited about the wonders of nature by using the iNaturalist interface. In early 2021, Mississippi Valley Conservancy, The Nature Place, (formerly known as WisCorps) and UW-La Crosse Biology department — organizations that have missions that closely align with the bioblitz  concept — created a “pilot proposal,” resulting in two successful events held in September. Through those events, we were able to work out any bugs (no pun intended) in the programming and in 2022 launched a full season of events, with La Crosse City Parks & Recreation also becoming a DABB partner in the program and in 2023, Viterbo Biology also became a DABB partner. Beginning in 2024, The Prairie Enthusiasts also became partners. (We also partnered with FSPA for two events on their private land as well as partnered with UW-Extension and Master Gardeners for a pollinator plant event. We also received additional promotional support from the La Crosse Public Library, ORA Trails, and four Neighborhood Associations, with the Sustainability Institute becoming a promotional supporter in 2023.)

2024: The Nature Place officially started facilitating the Driftless Area BioBlitz and will continue hosting the free DABB programs for all ages throughout spring, summer, and fall.  These programs would not be possible without continuing support from partners: Mississippi Valley Conservancy,  La Crosse City Parks, Recreation & Forestry, UW-L Biology department (with Dr. Barrett Klein and Dr. Todd Osmundson), Viterbo Biology department (with Dr. Ted Wilson), and The Prairie Enthusiasts. Strive 2 Thrive Coulee Region will continue to support this amazing program! Visit The Nature Place calendar to find exact dates for programs on bugs, plants, and more!