DEP Seeks Volunteers to Collect Information on Rare Wildlife Species
July 5, 2005
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is seeking volunteers to assist in collecting distribution information for rare wildlife species in the metropolitan areas of northeastern and central eastern New Jersey. The information collected will become part of the Metro Wildlife Survey, coordinated by the Endangered and Nongame Species Program (ENSP) of the DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife, along with Rutgers University’s Center for Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis (CRSSA).
The Metro Wildlife Survey is suitable for anyone with wildlife identification skills and does not involve a rigorous set of procedures. The survey simply asks outdoor enthusiasts (birdwatchers, paddlers, hikers, etc.) to focus their normal activities in target survey areas and report the rare wildlife observed during their visit via the online data submission form. Target survey areas include public and private property with historical sightings of endangered or threatened species. These areas serve as sanctuaries of habitat amidst the heavily developed and fragmented landscape of the metro region.
Volunteers can view survey areas using an interactive map, download data forms, and submit data online through the project Web site. Survey locations are focused in Bergen, Hudson, Union, and the Raritan Bay areas of Middlesex and Monmouth counties.
To participate in the Metro Wildlife Survey, visit the project Web site at www.dbcrssa.rutgers.edu/ims/metrowild. Volunteers will be required to register online before submitting data through the site. For more information, contact Melissa Craddock at 908-735-9281.