The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) is seeking motivated volunteers to assist with pollinator and flower surveys at the Larson Native Plant Garden at PEC headquarters in Warrenton, VA. The aim of these surveys is to document how pollinators (especially, native bees) use urban gardens that have been planted with a variety of native flowers, shrubs, and trees. These surveys will be the second season of a continuing, annual effort to track local pollinator populations over time.
No prior experience is necessary! All you need is the desire to learn about native plant and pollinator species, and sufficient time to dedicate to the project (including a mandatory training session, at-home practice activities, and the execution of assigned surveys). We will provide all necessary training, supplies, and equipment. If you are a Master Naturalist or Master Gardener, we strongly encourage you to join this project to share your expertise with the other volunteers.
Trained volunteers will need to commit to a minimum of 2 or more survey periods for the season. Volunteers will be able to select survey period(s) (AM and/or PM) that best fit their personal schedule - see shifts listed below. Citizen scientists will then be expected to complete surveys as assigned and ensure the delivery of data to the survey coordinator.
This is a wonderful opportunity to increase your knowledge of native plants and pollinators and to apply that knowledge in a study that will used to educate the local community.
