Activity Cards

The primary goal of the Butterfly Enhancement Project is to stabilize or improve populations of 10 butterfly species that are in decline. These 10 butterfly species in decline were identified using data collected from the Limestone Butterfly Count. A shortage of floral resources (nectar and larval host plants) may be a factor in this decline. In order to address this problem, 11 habitat islands were created within Limestone Canyon to become hotspots of floral and invertebrate diversity and to increase overall butterfly species richness and abundance.

Volunteers will survey the 11 enhancement plots along with 10 control plots using the survey123 app to record all plants and butterfly species that occur in each plot. Volunteers may use their own phones or check out a phone from IRC to do the survey. New plants species are often added to the plant list on survey, and updates to the survey in survey123 should be downloaded before the event begins. A pdf map of the plots can be downloaded onto the Avenza Maps app – it embedded location data and GPS to find your position in relation to the plots in real time.

Due to the plots being off trail, wearing snake chaps is recommended and will be provided by IRC staff.

Non-native and invasive plant species are invading our native habitat and open spaces. They aggressively compete with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Monitoring, management, and removal of these plant species is an important aspect of land management and habitat restoration.

Help us to manage populations of invasive plants and remove them from the habitat. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Snake chaps, gloves, and tools will be provided but please feel free to bring your own if you have them. Please wear long pants, long sleeved shirts, close toed shoes, and protective sun protection. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.