Volunteers began lepidoptera and odonata surveys in Dyke Marsh on April 20, 2016, led by Jim Waggener. On the 20th, surveyors identified five butterfly species in a brief span.  The peak time for surveys is May through September. This work helps identify and save critical habitat that preserves biodiversity in our region. 

Jessica Strother initiated the surveys for FODM.  Jim Waggener has been coordinating surveys in several Northern Virginia locations for over 25 years.  If you would like to participate and have some experience identifying butterflies, dragonflies or damselflies, contact Jessie at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The group also saw crayfish and muskrats close to the footbridge on the Haul Road trail. Photos courtesy of Ed Eder