A trio of rare species is flourishing at East Moline’s Amôwa Forest Preserve, an intensive survey of that biodiverse ecosystem containing 889 species confirms. Now the Rock Island County Forest Preserve Commission has launched a fundraiser to protect them.
Those species, uncovered through the Bi-State Conservation Action Network BioBlitz held last June, include the rare bee species called Protandrena bancrofti, the Three-Birds Orchid and False Mermaid Weed, a commission news release said.
The county’s newest forest preserve – whose name “Amôwa” is the Sauk word for “bee” – is located on about 180 acres overlooking the Rock River valley two miles south of the Mississippi River, two miles north of the Rock River and a half mile west of the Interstate 80 and 88 intersection.
Sales of T-shirts, which feature “Born to Buzz” on the front and “Amôwa the Place to Bee” on the back, will help the commission protect rare new species and conserve the biodiverse habitat for other native species.
Funds raised by the commission through the limited-edition T-shirt fundraiser will benefit the Larry Topper Endowment Fund. That fund is dedicated to preserving rare species, protecting natural ecosystems and supporting conservation initiatives at Amôwa Forest Preserve.
Purchase a “Born to Buzz” T-shirt here. “The discovery of these rare species during the Bi-CAN BioBlitz is a testament to the rich biodiversity that thrives within Amôwa Forest Preserve,” Rock Island Forest Preserve District Director Jeffrey Craver said in a news release.
“Protecting these ecosystems is more important than ever, and we’re calling on the community to support our conservation efforts,” he added. “Whether it’s through purchasing a T-shirt, donating or volunteering, every contribution helps ensure that these natural spaces are preserved for future generations to enjoy and explore.”
Blitz provided key data
The Bi-CAN BioBlitz event, a 24-hour scientific endeavor, brought together a team of more than 25 scientists and volunteers with a shared goal: to enhance understanding of the ecosystems within Amôwa Forest Preserve and catalog its biodiversity, the release said. Participants surveyed mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, plants, insects and much more on the nearly 180-acre mixed habitat preserve.
The event provides important data to establish a baseline for management strategies for identified species while celebrating the diversity of life that thrives in the area. Among the 899 species it identified, these three stood out, the release said:
- Protandrena bancrofti: This rare and unique bee species plays a vital role in pollination, which is essential to maintaining the health and balance of the forest’s ecosystem. The species has distinctive pollination habits, which ensure the reproductive success of several key plant species in the preserve.
- Three-Birds Orchid: Found in the shaded, moist areas of the preserve, this delicate and rare orchid symbolizes Amôwa’s biodiversity. Its presence highlights the beauty of the preserve’s ecosystems, and its discovery is significant for local conservation efforts.
- False Mermaid Weed: Although less known, False Mermaid Weed plays an equally important role in preserving the integrity of the forest’s undergrowth. This species contributes to the overall balance of the ecosystem by maintaining healthy interactions within the plant community.
These discoveries not only highlighted the ecological significance of Amôwa Forest Preserve but also provide critical information for ongoing conservation efforts, the release said.
How the public can help
The public is urged to participate in the T-shirt fundraiser and explore other ways to contribute, including long-term giving, sponsorships, end-of-life donations or volunteering.
The mission of the Rock Island County Forest Preserve District is to maintain and acquire lands and facilities in Rock Island County. The aim is to restore, conserve and protect the waters, forests and prairies they contain. The goal is to create educational and recreational opportunities for the residents of Rock Island County and beyond.
Today, the Rock Island County Forest Preserve Commission governs seven forest preserve areas totaling 2,659 acres. In addition to Amôwa Forest Preserve, they include: Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, Illiniwek Forest Preserve, Niabi Zoo, Indian Bluff Golf Course and Forest Preserve, Dorrance Park and Martin Conservation Area.
For more information on the forest preserve, visit www.RICFPD.org
