Published: September 01, 2008 03:15 pm         

Wyatt comes through big time in firefly collecting

Responding to the call of science, Crossville lightning bug collectors in 2008 delivered 1,997 grams of lightning bugs. This was almost a 75 percent increase from the 2007 summer's sum of 1,152 grams. Elsewhere, Monterey netters in 2008 ended drawing a "goose egg."

Leading the way for Crossville in 2008 for the third straight year was Hannah Wyatt of Rains Rd., who continued her torrid catching pace that she displayed in 2006 and 2007. In 2008, she and her family scooped in 586 grams of blinking bugs to rake in a check for $248. In the last three years, she has amassed the amazing amount of 1,511 grams to clear checks for over $596.

In second place was the hard-charging netsman Brett Earhart of Jim Garrett Rd., who scooped in 449 grams to rake in a check for over $211. In 2008, he more than doubles his 2007 amount of 221 grams.

Third place honors were earned by another collector of great prowess, Donna Williams of Rains Rd., who netted 353 grams for the net gain of a check for over $149, while the powerful collector Matthew Polson of W. Creston Rd. merited fourth place distinctions by snatching 251 grams of insects to snag a check for over $106.

In fifth place were the rising catching stars Dillon and Haley Mitchell of Shadberry with 94 grams to earn nearly $40, while Riley and McKenna Day of Canary Rd. captured sixth place with 64 grams to earn a check for $27. Len and Alea Griffis of Buck Creek caught 58 grams to clear a check for over $24.

Others doing well were Parker Ashburn of Pomona Rd. who roundedup 33 grams of fireflies to clear a check for nearly $25, and Austin Dent of Stanley St. who had 26 grams.

In addition, a mystery collector donated anonymously some 33 grams for the use of the scientists.

Scientists at Promega Biosciences in San Luis Obispo, CA, use the insects for public health safety testing of food.

While collections are held on a summer by summer basis, it is possible that scientists will be needing more supplies next summer. For more information or to be notified of a collection next year, please contact the Firefly Project, c/o 122 Emory Ln., Oak Ridge, TN or call 1-888-520-1272. The e-mail address is fireflyproject@yahoo.com.