Calling all Nature Enthusiasts and Citizen Scientists! 

Join us for a BioBlitz at the Goleta Butterfly Grove at Ellwood Mesa
Saturday, May 4, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

What's a Bioblitz, you ask? It's a fun and educational event to explore and document the incredible biodiversity around us! We're on a mission to identify and record as many plants, animals, fungi, and other species as possible within the Goleta Butterfly Grove at Ellwood Mesa.

This Bioblitz will be used as an informal baseline survey of local biodiversity of the Goleta Butterfly Grove before the City begins its enhancement and restoration project.  We can conduct these surveys in different seasons this first year and then again after several years to track changes in plants, birds, insects and more!

No experience necessary – all ages and skill levels welcome! Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or just curious about the world around you, this event is for you. Spread the word and bring your friends – the more, the merrier!

The Goleta Butterfly Grove BioBlitz is co-hosted by The City of Goleta’s Parks and Open Space Division, UC Santa Barbara’s Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration, and LegacyWorks Group. This event is funded by the California State Coastal Conservancy. 

Why Attend?

• Learn about local flora and fauna.
• Contribute valuable data to scientific research.
• Connect with fellow nature lovers.
• Enjoy a day outdoors with friends and family.
• Learn to use i-naturalist app on your phone to document your discoveries.

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Snacks
• Smartphone or camera for documentation
• Download iNaturalist to your smartphone and join the “BioBlitz Ellwood Mesa” project
• Binoculars (optional)

• Whatever else you need for your comfort

RSVP

Please sign up by so we know how many to expect and so we can notify you of any changes. RSVP to our Google form here.

Can kids attend? 

Yes, this event is open to kids. The Cheadle Center will provide a kids program for ages 6-10. Young scientists who want to join the data collection groups are also welcome to join the adults who are exploring the site. 

Parking

Park at Ellwood Mesa Open Space & Sperling Preserve parking area, 7729 Hollister Avenue, across the street from Ellwood Elementary (view on Google Maps).

Questions?

For more information, contact Melissa Fontaine melissa@legacyworksgroup.com