Bumblebee Survey Volunteer

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General Description

Pollinators play an important role in our ecosystems. They are vital because they provide many ecosystem services, like pollinating native plants and food crops. There are 23 native bumble bee species in Minnesota. However, some species are in decline due to the destruction of native habitat, which is necessary for foraging and nesting. In order to conserve bumble bees and the habitat they depend on, we need to learn more about our local bees!

The Minnesota Bumblebee Survey has worked to document long-term trends in bumble bee populations and monitor declining species in the Twin Cities Area. Volunteers are always needed to help with this research! This summer at Lebanon Hills Regional Park you’ll learn from bumblebee researchers how to capture bees while they forage on flowers. These bees are then identified by the experts, marked, and released. This is a safe and fun activity for everyone over 5 years old. This data will help us to conserve bumblebees and the habitat they depend on.

Location

Lebanon Hills Regional Park - Equestrian Trailhead

800 120 th St W

Eagan, MN 55123

Date/Time

Saturday, June 30

2-4 pm

Sunday, July 15

2-4 pm

Saturday, August 4

9:30-11:30 am

Duties & Responsibilities

Help collect information about our local bumblebee populations

Minimum Qualifications

• Ages 5 and up are welcomed with an adult present
• Must not be allergic to bees
• Must be comfortable with working in an outside environment

Minimum Time Commitment

2 hours

Activity Level

Moderate - To fully participate may require leisurely walking over primarily even surfaces. There may be a limited number of steps, a minimal amount of uneven surfaces, and some standing for extended periods of time. Comfortable shoes recommended.

Contact Information

Linnea Wier | Natural Resources Temp.

Dakota County Parks

14995 Galaxie Avenue

Direct: 952-891-7829| Email: Linnea.Wier@CO.DAKOTA.MN.US