Dedham Natural Wonders Hosts BioBlitz

Local residents resolved an ongoing identity crisis in Dedham on Saturday.

Roughly 50 people explored Dedham's natural habits and open spaces to identify a variety of living species at the . The interactive event allowed local residents to investigate different areas throughout the town, including Whitcomb Woods, Dedham Town Forest and Cutler Park. 

Dedham Natural Wonders (DNW), a program designed to promote awareness and stewardship of the biodiversity in Dedham's natural habitats, hosted the event.

“We have amazing natural resources ready for exploration, and it is my goal to showcase these wonders to other Dedham residents through my new community group, Dedham Natural Wonders, and this BioBlitz," DNW founder Stephanie Radner said. "Through education and awareness, I believe people are more likely to become stewards of Dedham’s open spaces for future generations to enjoy.” 

Radner said the bioblitz offers the general public a chance to learn more about another side of Dedham.  

"There's been a flurry of activity," Radner said. "We have people all over town."

The Dedham BioBlitz offered children and adults the opportunity to explore the outdoors while identifying living species including bugs, fungi and reptiles. The event featured nature walks led by world-renowned naturalist Peter Alden, a kid-friendly bio-scavenger hunt along the banks of the Charles River and information from field specialists.

New England Wild Flower Society Vegetation Management Coordinator Ted Elliman led a group on a walk through the trails at the Dolan Recreation Center (DRC). Elliman, who had participated in two prior bioblitzes, noted the Dedham event offered a true bioblitz experience.

Elliman discovered 120 species in his exploration along the DRC trails, but emphasized he would like to investigate different areas in Dedham.

"This was my first experience doing anything [in Dedham]," Elliman said. "I'd like to be able to look at a different area or do a more complete count [of living species] in the future."

Local residents spent four hours conducting their explorations of Dedham's natural habits and open spaces. But  provided lemonade to participants upon their return to the DRC.

"This is a great event," Scott Linari, father of lemonade stand co-founders Jack and Eric, said. "It was a no-brainer for us to come here today."

DNW has identified at least 285 species from the bioblitz. But Radner said the list will continue to grow over the next few days. 

"We're hoping to get to 375," Radner said, referring to the Dedham 375th anniversary celebration. "I think it is very easy to get there."