Bumble bees play an important role in pollination and volunteers across Iowa are needed to take part in the community science project known as Iowa’s Bumble Bee Atlas. Last year, the project’s first year, there were 36 participants who submitted 148 surveys, detecting over 800 bees from 10 different species.

Participants observe the bees, their habitats, and what kinds of flowers they like. People can take part anywhere in Iowa. The organizers are especially needing volunteers in rural areas. Last year, there were fewer than 25 surveys across southeast Iowa.

To learn more about this Iowa Department of Natural Resources project, including how to sign up for an online training on April 19th, visit this site: https://www.bumblebeeatlas.org/pages/iowa?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery