Photo courtesy of The Scarlet Knight Herons

By Dana Patterson, WNJ Correspondent

Graduate students in the Rutgers Ecology & Evolution program are raising money for the Graduate Student Association (EcoGSA) through the World Series of Birding , hosted by the New Jersey Audubon.

On May 9, 2009, the Scarlet Knight Herons team- Brian Clough, Bill Lynch, David La Puma, and Charlie Kontos - will venture out in New Jersey to identify as many birds as possible by sight or sound. 

According to New Jersey Audubon, the World Series of Birding has changed the birding landscape and raised over $8,000,000 for bird conservation. Every species found – every dollar raised preserves and protects critical bird habitat.

"We'd be thrilled to see over 175 species," Lynch explained. "There's really no way to tell what the conditions will be in terms of weather and migration, but we're going to have a great time regardless."

The EcoGSA is a valuable part of the local scientific community, helping with the conservation of important habitats, such as Helyar Woods, Hutcheson Memorial Forest, and other significant habitats.  The EcoGSA raises awareness concerning environmental issues through academic seminars presenting integral research. 

"The EcoGSA helps graduate students with research grants, opportunities to put on seminars, attend conferences. They also help to conserve and maintain valuable natural areas around the state," said Lynch.

Check out the team blog at http://knightherons.blogspot.com for more information about supporting the team.


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Dana Patterson is the Toxics Program Coordinator for the Edison Wetlands Association.