We all understand the importance of pollinators. Researchers now are trying to gauge their populations and interactions with the pollinator plants that we try so hard to incorporate into our gardens and landscapes. One way that you can assist in these efforts is by participating in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census! The Great Southeast Pollinator Census is an initiative started by researchers with University of Georgia Extension. This year's census will take place on August 23rd and 24th. Here's how this works:

1. On August 23rd or 24th, you will pick one pollinator plant in your yard, neighborhood or community (you could go somewhere like the Cupola House or Newbold White House if you want!)

2. Once you have chosen your plant, you will spend 15 minutes observing that one plant to see how many times a pollinator interacts with it. You count each time a pollinator lands on the plant as one visit, even if it is the same pollinator over and over.

3. Do your best to identify the pollinators that visited and tally up your total.

4. Report this information online at gsepc.org

For a printable tally sheet and pollinator identification guide, click here: Count-Sheet-2024 (1)

This is a great activity to involve your families in too, especially children and grandchildren! If you would like to know more about this initiative, visit https://gsepc.org/

If you have any questions or want to know more about getting involved, contact Kellie Binnicker at keluton@ncsu.edu or 252-482-6585.