This article was featured in the 2026 Spring Newsletter by Megan Pistolese-Shaw, SLELO PRISM.
We’re thrilled to share two exciting opportunities that invite partners across the region to come together, inspire local communities, and elevate our shared conservation goals. Your expertise, creativity, and passion are what make regional initiatives thrive, and we’d love to collaborate with you to make these efforts truly shine.
SLELO PRISM is interested in collaborating with partners to launch a region‑wide BioBlitz this summer we’ve named NNYBioblitz26. This is a great opportunity to help create a powerful snapshot of biodiversity across the Eastern Lake Ontario St. Lawrence region.
A BioBlitz is an energetic, hands‑on event where scientists, naturalists, and community members team up to identify as many species as possible in a short period of time. It’s fast‑paced, educational, fun, and a great way to engage the public in real‑world conservation science.
How Partners Can Collaborate
- Host your own BioBlitz anytime from June– August 2026. If you’re not up for hosting your own bioblitz, you can join one being held by SLELO on June 13th at Lakeveiw WMA in Henderson, NY (get details).
- Events held June 8th–14th are especially encouraged in honor of New York Invasive Species Awareness Week (NYISAW).
- Hold events within or bordering Oneida, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, or St. Lawrence counties.
- Canadian partners are warmly welcomed to host events within or bordering the upper St. Lawrence River region.
- Data will be recorded via the iNaturalist Project NNYBioblitz26.
This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight local habitats, engage volunteers, and contribute to a region‑wide biodiversity dataset.
New York Invasive Species Awareness Week returns June 8–14, 2026, and we’re aiming for full regional participation. Our goal: at least one event in each of the five SLELO counties—and your involvement can make it happen.
NYISAW is a statewide effort led by DEC and PRISM partners to raise awareness about invasive species and their impacts. Events are free, flexible, and can be tailored to your organization’s strengths.
How You Can Participate:
- Host an event anytime during June 8–14, 2026.
- Create something new or include an event you already have planned.
- Any invasive species–related activity counts, including: BioBlitzes
- Removal or restoration efforts
- Guided hikes or paddles
- Exhibits or tabling events
- Film screenings or art shows
- Workshops, talks, and more
This is a wonderful way to spotlight your organization’s work, connect with your community, and contribute to a statewide movement.
Both NNYBioBlitz26 and NYISAW offer meaningful, energizing ways to engage the public, celebrate local biodiversity, and strengthen regional conservation networks. We hope you’ll join us in making these initiatives a success!
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