Volunteer Event: Bumble Bee Survey at Lewis Ocean Bay

The Bumble Bee Atlas Project is a conservation initiative by the Xerces Society and partners to track and conserve bumble bees, an important native pollinator. Data for the project is gathered by citizen scientists and uploaded to the Bumble Bee Watch database where it can be accessed by researchers and conservationists.

As a chapter, we have the wonderful opportunity to help with this important project! Join us at Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve to conduct a bumble bee survey during which we will be documenting and collecting data on the local species we have here in the Grand Strand. The survey will involve finding, capturing, and photographing bumble bees. Surveying does not harm the bumble bees and they will be safely released after they have been recorded.

This will be a low exertion event, but will include extended periods of standing and walking (~1 mile). Anticipate walking along trails and through brush on uneven ground.  

Wear long pants and closed toed shoes. Bring sunscreen and plenty of water. This area has ticks and while bug spray is allowed, please be conscientious of your bug spray application as we will be handling bumble bees. Consider wearing long sleeves to decrease the need for bug spray. 

Supplies for the bumble bee survey will be provided as well as a brief on site training. 

Date: June 27th, weather permitting. If weather is unsuitable, we will be surveying June 28th

Time: 8AM - 10AM

Location: Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve (2575 International Dr, Conway, SC 29526). Please meet in the parking lot and we will drive to the survey location.

Cost: Free