Join the Pollinator Week BioBlitz with the Vancouver Bee Project on iNaturalist!
As we celebrate Pollinator Week, there's no better way to engage with nature and contribute to science than by joining the Pollinator Week BioBlitz organized by the Vancouver Bee Project. This exciting event invites community members to explore local biodiversity, document pollinators, and help protect these vital creatures.
What is a BioBlitz?
A BioBlitz is an intense period of biological surveying in an attempt to record all the living species within a designated area. Volunteers, scientists, and community members work together to find and identify as many species as possible. By participating, you’re not just learning about the environment but also contributing valuable data to help researchers and conservationists.
How to Participate
Participating in the Pollinator Week BioBlitz is simple and fun. Here’s how you can get involved:
Download the iNaturalist App: If you don’t already have it, download the iNaturalist app on your smartphone. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices.
Join the Project: Head over to the Pollinator Week BioBlitz - Vancouver Bee Project page on iNaturalist and click “Join” to become part of the project.
Get Outside: Visit your local parks, gardens, or even your backyard. Explore different habitats and keep an eye out for pollinators like bees, butterflies, birds, and beetles.
Snap and Share: Take clear photos of the pollinators you find. Upload your observations to iNaturalist, where the community and experts can help identify the species.
Engage and Learn: Engage with other participants by commenting on observations, asking questions, and sharing knowledge. It’s a great way to learn more about local biodiversity and the importance of pollinators.
Why Pollinators Matter
Pollinators are crucial to our ecosystem. They help in the reproduction of over 75% of the world’s flowering plants, including many of the crops we rely on for food. Unfortunately, pollinator populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. By participating in this BioBlitz, you’re contributing to vital research that can inform conservation efforts and protect these essential creatures. Come to one of our Bee Strolls or the Water Center BioBlitz to participate or hit up your favorite local park or greenspace and start logging photos.
What are Bee Strolls?
Bee Strolls are guided nature walks where participants can observe and learn about various pollinators in their natural habitats. Our knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the life of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, teaching you how to identify different species and understand their crucial roles in our ecosystem.
Event Details
June 16th Bee Stroll:
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Flat Tack Farm/Sprout & Blossom Farm
Highlights: Basic bee identification, exploring different areas of the farm, kid-friendly event
Note: This is a working farm, so be prepared to walk on uneven surfaces. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes, and bring a water bottle.
June 23rd Bee Stroll:
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: 13517 NE 77th Street, Vancouver WA 98682
Highlights: Discover a variety of pollinators in a backyard setting, suitable for all ages. Visit a featured property that is part of the Clark Green Neighbors Natural Garden Tour.
Note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water and sun protection.
Join Us on June 29th!
Mark your calendars for June 29th, the highlight of our BioBlitz. We’ll be hosting a series of themed walks at the Water Resources Education Center. One of the highlights is a Spanish-led walk by Almendra Velazquez-Perez, a board member of the Vancouver Bee Project. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about pollinators in a supportive, bilingual environment.
Final Thoughts
The Pollinator Week BioBlitz is a wonderful way to connect with nature, contribute to citizen science, and support the conservation of pollinators. Whether you’re an experienced naturalist or just someone who loves the outdoors, your participation can make a difference. So grab your phone, get outside, and start exploring!
For more details, visit our iNaturalist project page and follow us on social media for updates. Let’s make this Pollinator Week one to remember!
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