Lake Vermilion and Soudan Underground Mine state parks to host ‘BioBlitz’

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Lake Vermilion and Soudan Underground Mine state parks to host ‘BioBlitz’ June 25-26
(Released June 16, 2011)

Lake Vermilion and Soudan Underground Mine state parks will host BioBlitz 2011 June 25-26.

A BioBlitz is an event designed to record all the living species within a particular area in a set time frame. Participants are invited to join scientists, natural resource specialists and naturalists as they work to survey the park and count as many species as they can in a 24-hour period.

Participants will get the chance to assist with a multitude of scientific activities. They can take a plant walk and learn to identify Lake Vermilion State Park’s native flora; learn about the role of fungi in maintaining a healthy forest ecosystem; get up early for a morning bird survey; take a ride on a pontoon to survey the shoreline for wildlife; collect dragonfly specimens for identification; or set up equipment for gathering overnight data on native mammals. These activities and more, as well as interpretive programs throughout the day, encourage scientific exploration for people of all ages.

Programs begin at noon June 25 and end at noon June 26. Participants are invited to take part in any or all of the programs, but need to register for specific programs the day of the event at BioBlitz Central, located at Soudan Underground Mine State Park. All activities are free and will be outside regardless of weather. Visitors are encouraged to bring extra clothing as well as a water bottle.

Lake Vermilion and Soudan Underground Mine state parks are day-use only, but visitors can find overnight camping opportunities at nearby Bear Head Lake State Park. To make a reservation, go to stayatmnparks.com or call 866-857-2757.

Soudan Underground Mine State Park is located in northeastern Minnesota, two miles east of Tower. No vehicle permit is required to park in the main lot. For more information go to the BioBlitz Web page or mndnr.gov or contact James Pointer at 218-753-2245 or email soudanmine.statepark@state.mn.us.

For information about other programs and events at Minnesota state parks and trails, visit www.mndnr.gov/parksandtrails, or contact the DNR Information Center at info.dnr@state.mn.us or 651-296-6157 or toll-free 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.