Learn more about the upcoming citizen scientist project at Smith-Gilbert Gardens.

On August 21 and 22, Smith-Gilbert Gardens is participating in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census project. We’ve invited our community to help us out, encouraging everyone to become citizen scientists. But what is a pollinator census, and how can you help?

The Importance of Pollinators and Census Tracking

Pollinators—like bees, butterflies, birds, moths and bats—contribute to the vital reproduction of plants. By transferring pollen throughout the ecosystem, pollinators are responsible for more than 75% of the world’s flowering plants and approximately 35% of global food crops.

To track pollinator populations and assess local ecosystems, researchers created the pollinator census. The Great Southeast Pollinator Census is a project conducted by the University of Georgia Extension Office in southeastern states—Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama and Mississippi.

Observations from this project help scientists better understand pollinator populations and support conservation efforts.

How to Participate in the Census

Participating is simple! You will choose your favorite pollinator plant and count and identify the insects that land on that plant during a 15-minute period. Then, you report your data. The Gardens will provide counting sheets and instructions for self-guided participation.

More Information

On August 21 and 22, at the Gardens, staff will assist participants and answer any questions you may have. You’ll be given a counting worksheet with an insect identification guide.

Once complete, you’ll submit your data on https://gsepc.org/