People all over the country are collecting data on pollinators in their yards, gardens, schools and parks. Together, we take counts of the number and types of pollinators visiting plants (especially sunflowers). We have been gathering information on pollinator service since 2008, and now have the largest single body of information about bee pollinator service in North America. Thanks to our thousands of observers, we can determine where pollinator service is strong or weak compared to averages.
Why It’s Important
Over the past few years, scientific studies have suggested that both honey bee and native bee populations are in trouble. What we don’t know is how this is affecting pollination of our gardens, crops and wild lands. In 2008, we started this project as a way to gather information about our urban, suburban and rural bee populations and to give you the tools to learn about what is happening with the pollinators in your yard.
How You Can Help
While we love to get data from our namesake species, Lemon Queen Sunflowers, you can participate by watching a plant and recording how many pollinators visit, or recording pollinators as you take your favorite hike!
Seeds can be purchased at your local store or through Renee’s Garden who will donate 25% of her proceeds if you use the coupon code FR225A. Do join us!
We would love to have you; let’s help our most important pollinators together!
Source: www.greatsunflower.org
GR: Here’s a splendid opportunity to contribute to nature conservation. Choose a location and make a checklist of the butterflies, bumblebees, and hummingbirds you see. Report your results to the Great Sunflower Project. Now you’re working.
