Citizens United To Protect The Maurice River - Pollinator Survey Training at WheatonArts / 6-12-25

Join CU Maurice River at WheatonArts for a training on conducting pollinator surveys on Thursday, June 12. First,  there will be an indoor presentation in the Event Center to discuss survey methods, how to use the iNaturalist app, and how to identify pollinators from various field guides. Afterwards, participants  will head to the WheatonArts gardens to practice the survey methodology.

Throughout the growing season, they will gather at the gardens every few weeks to check out native bees and other beneficial insects. Attending this training is required to participate in future surveys. The data collected will be used to create signage at the garden on the most common pollinators. No experience is necessary to participate, just a willingness to learn!

The training will be led by Kelly Gill, a Xerces Society Pollinator Conservation Specialist and a Partner Biologist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. In her dual role Kelly provides technical assistance on pollinator conservation in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast region. This work includes planning, designing, installing, and managing habitat for these helpful creatures. Kelly also works with staff and research partners to develop technical guidelines and provide training on pollinator conservation practices. Kelly completed her master’s Degree in entomology at Iowa State University where she conducted research on the development of best practices for conserving native bees and beneficial insects in agricultural landscapes.