A major objective of the Greenway project is to identify and track the species living in its forests, marshes, and streams. This research can then inform how the habitat is managed. Following are projects the Greenway partners have undertaken to accomplish the goal.

BioBlitz

A BioBlitz is a 24-hour snapshot of biodiversity, in which experts leading volunteers in the field to log as many species as possible. The first South River Greenway BioBlitz was held in June 2009, hosted by Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks, Scenic Rivers Land Trust, and South River Federation. Scientists conducted surveys of birds, butterflies, plants, trees, reptiles & amphibians, fish, dragonflies, and insects. The 2009 species count was 681.  BioBlitz was repeated in September of 2010 and the species count is still being tallied. The next BioBlitz is planned for spring 2011.

BGE Right-of-Way

In order to assess current wildlife populations living in the BGE power line rights-of-way (link to habitat restoration page – more BGE project info), SRG partners are currently undertaking surveys of birds (through a partnership with the Anne Arundel County Bird Club), butterflies, plants (through a partnership with Chesapeake Wildlife Heritage), and bees.

Bird Surveys

In spring 2007, the SRG partners and Maryland/DC Audubon conducted a six-day bird survey, known as a Bird Blitz. A portion of the Greenway was then identified by Maryland/DC Audubon as an Important Bird Area, one of just over 30 in the Maryland. An Important Bird Area is a site that provides essential habitat for one or more species of vulnerable birds, including nesting areas, migration stop-over sites, or wintering grounds.

previous          next          SRG home