NEWS RELEASE

Contact:
Denise Durenberger, denise.durenberger@findlay.edu
419-379-5250
Josh Eilola, joshua.eilola@findlay.edu
419-889-7023

FINDLAY, Ohio — University of Findlay announces Bioblitz 2024, a collaborative effort with Bluffton University aimed at exploring and documenting the rich biodiversity within their respective nature preserves. Scheduled for July 13, 2024, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., volunteers and community members are invited to join faculty experts in the day-long exploration of local ecosystems.

The event will begin at the Rieck Center for Habitat Studies in Mt. Blanchard, OH, then proceed to Spurgat Land Conservancy, culminating at the Bluffton University Nature Preserve. A reception at the Moyer Center will conclude the day, providing participants with an opportunity to share findings and experiences.

“We are excited to engage our community in this meaningful endeavor,” said Ben Dolan, Ph.D., associate professor of biology and director of natural areas and plant collections at University of Findlay. “By partnering with Bluffton University, we aim to foster greater awareness and appreciation for the natural world while making significant strides in ecological research.”

The primary goal of Bioblitz 2024 is to enhance species identification efforts by achieving a 20% increase in documented species compared to previous years. This ambitious objective underscores the event’s mission to bolster biodiversity data collection and contribute to local conservation initiatives. Participants will have the unique opportunity to work alongside biologists, ecologists, and naturalists, gaining valuable insights into species identification and habitat diversity.

About University of Findlay: Established in 1882 through a partnership between the Churches of God, General Conference and the city of Findlay, University of Findlay is known for excellence in its science, health professions, animal science, and equestrian studies programs, but also for cultivating the next generation of business leaders, educators, and innovative thinkers through a dedication to experiential learning in and outside of the classroom. With a mission to equip students for meaningful lives and productive careers, University of Findlay offers more than 88 bachelor's degrees, 11 master's degrees, and five doctorate-level degree programs. The University has an average annual enrollment of 3,500 students, which includes nearly 400 international students. The 403-acre campus includes an Animal Science and Western Equestrian Riding Complex, English Equestrian Riding Farm, All Hazards Training Center, and a 55-acre wetland to offer hands-on learning opportunities for all students. A proud member of the NCAA Division II Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC), University of Findlay students compete as the Oilers on 22 men’s and women’s teams.

About Bluffton University: Founded in 1899 and affiliated with Mennonite Church USA, Bluffton’s legacy is expressed in its enduring values of discovery, community, respect and service which are woven into the academic program and campus community. Located on a 65-acre residential campus in northwest Ohio and lined with abundant natural beauty, Bluffton University offers more than 90 majors, minors and interdisciplinary programs for undergraduate students to explore as well as graduate programs in business administration (MBA), education (MAEd), nutrition and dietetics (MND), organizational management (MAOM) and social work (MSW). Bluffton University has an average annual enrollment of 700 students. Student-athletes compete as the Beavers through 18 NCAA DIII athletic teams and a co-ed esports team.