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Eau Claire Barrens BioBlitzes Sarah Braun and Rick Koziel Beaver Creek Reserve Citizen Science Center, Fall Creek WI October 23, 2009 Abstract Methods During the Summer of 2009, the Citizen Science Center teamed up with Eau Claire County to conduct modified BioBlitzes of the Coon Fork and South Fork Barrens State Natural Areas in Eau Claire County. Background The modified BioBlitz was conducted to assist with inventory of the pineoak barren sites for Species of Greatest Conservation Concern in the part of the Eau Claire County Forest designated within the central sand plains ecological landscape and to identify new potential barren restoration sites. Results Five taxonomic groups were surveyed including: birds, herps, mammals, terrestrial plants, and worms. 54 species of birds were documented including the black-billed cuckoo, brown thrasher, and field sparrow. Zero species of herps were documented. Seven species of mammals were documented at the Coon Fork SNA and 8 species at the South Fork SNA. Three types of worms were documented, epigeic (leaf-litter) worms and both unpigmented and pigmented juvenile worms. 76 species of terrestrial plants were documented at the Coon Fork SNA (including three new county records) and 86 species at the South Fork SNA. A BioBlitz is defined as rapid biological survey of a property in which as many species from as many taxonomic groups as possible are counted within a 24-hr period (www.pwrc.usgs.gov/blitz/). The BioBlitz conducted here took throughout the summer in order to capture data from more taxa and maximize citizen scientists time. The taxa chosen to be surveyed were determined by the expertise of the citizen scientists and professionals working with us. Sampling protocols were taxa specific. Citizen scientists and professionals participated in a half day training session to become oriented with the State Natural Areas and to discuss logistics and protocols amongst the taxa groups. Conclusions A detailed report of the BioBlitzes is being compiled and will be posted on the Citizen Science Center website, www.beavercreekreserve.org. Acknowledgements The Citizen Science Center would like to thank all of the volunteers and professionals who donated their time to ensure the success of these BioBlitzes.