There’s nothing I love more than being outside on a beautiful day and getting to observe all the nature around me. It helps to take a stroll through the landscape to give yourself a few minutes of peace in our sometimes busy lives. Did you know that slowing down to pay attention could also help with science? This year I encourage you to join us and many others in The Great Southeast Pollinator Census!
What is The Great Southeast Pollinator Census you may ask? It’s a regional citizen-science project that documents pollinator activity across the Southeast. The Census is coordinated through the University of Georgia and invites residents of all ages to observe a flowering plant for 15 minutes and tally visiting insects. It is open to residents of Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi.
What all is involved in this experiment and do you have to be an expert to do it? Nope! The Great Southeast Pollinator Census Website provides information, a guidebook, and tally sheets for anyone interested in participating. You’ll read over the Insect Counting and Identification Guide to make sure you know what insects you’re looking for. Then you’ll grab your tally sheet and head outside. Each participant will observe a plant for 15 minutes and tally the amount and type of pollinators you observe. Once completed you’ll head back to The Great Southeast Pollinator Census Website and upload your counts! It’s as easy as that.
