Native pollinator diversity is declining at an alarming rate in many areas of Massachusetts at for unknown reasons. The New England Beecology project aims to fill this critical knowledge gap by training ‘beecologists’ from across the state on how to use our newly developed iPhone and Android phone apps to collect ecological data on different bumblebee species and then send it to our central database where it can be used to identify key factors driving species decline. This workshop will cover the major issues associated with wild pollinator decline, provide training on how to use our smartphone technology, and give you information on how to incorporate ecological pollinator conservation strategies in your own backyard. The August 11 Tower Hill Botanic Garden presentation at 10 – 12 will be followed by a walk in the gardens to look for bumblebees and practice using the app. Free with admission to Tower Hill. To register, visit www.towerhillbg.org.

Dr. Robert J. Gegear is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Biology and Biotechnology at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Director of the New England Beecology Project.