The Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas: An Accessible Citizen Science Initiative
Have you ever wondered about the buzzing creatures that play a vital role in pollinating our plants and crops? Did you know that there are at least 25 species of bumble bee in Washington State with many species present here in Vancouver and Clark County? Bumble bees, with their fuzzy bodies and distinctive buzz, are among nature's most efficient pollinators. But did you know that many bumble bee species are facing threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change? That's where the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas comes into play.
What is the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas?
The Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas is a citizen science project aimed at documenting and conserving bumble bee populations in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Led by researchers at Washington State University and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, this collaborative effort relies on the help of volunteers like you to collect data on bumble bee distribution and abundance.
Why Bumble Bees Matter
Bumble bees are essential pollinators for many of the fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers that sustain our ecosystems and food systems. However, several bumble bee species are experiencing population declines due to habitat loss, pesticide exposure, diseases, and climate change. By monitoring bumble bee populations, researchers can better understand their distribution, health, and conservation needs.
How Can You Participate?
Participating in the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas is easy and rewarding. Here's how you can get involved:
Register: Visit the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas website to register as a volunteer. Registration is free and open to anyone with an interest in bumble bees and a willingness to contribute data.
Training: Complete the online training modules provided on the website to learn about bumble bee identification, data collection protocols, and safety guidelines.
Survey: Head out into your backyard, local park, or favorite hiking trail armed with a camera or smartphone. Look for bumble bees visiting flowers and snap photos to document their presence.
Submit Data: Upload your bumble bee observations to the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas website or mobile app. Include details such as location, date, and habitat type to help researchers analyze the data.
Learn and Share: Explore the wealth of resources available on the website to learn more about bumble bees, their habitat requirements, and conservation strategies. Share your findings with friends, family, and social media followers to raise awareness about bumble bee conservation.
Why Your Participation Matters
By participating in the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas, you become a vital part of ongoing efforts to monitor and conserve bumble bee populations. Your observations contribute to a growing database that informs conservation decisions, identifies critical habitat areas, and guides policy initiatives to protect these important pollinators for future generations.
Join the Buzz
Ready to join the buzz and become a citizen scientist for bumble bee conservation? Visit the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas website today to register and start making a difference for bumble bees in the Pacific Northwest. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for these essential pollinators and the ecosystems they support.
Bombus spp. on Riverbank Lupine.