The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) is pleased to welcome Kalyn Bickerman-Martens to share more about the state-wide citizen science effort, the Maine Bumble Bee Atlas (MBBA), on Thursday, March 18 at 6 p.m. Join us for this virtual lecture to learn more about the research, results, and the importance of MBBA’s studies over the years, along with the important role Bumble bees play in our ecosystem.

As a visitor to our gardens, bumble bees are vital for the pollination of many tasty fruits and vegetables in addition to our favorite spring and summer wildflowers. The decline in bumble bee populations across the nation over the last several decades is alarming. Of the 17 species known to reside in Maine, little is known about their status. Enter the Maine Bumble Bee Atlas! This multi-year survey is gathering information across the state about the diversity, distribution, and abundance of Maine’s bumble bees. Thanks to the coordination from Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in partnership with the University of Maine at Orono and Farmington and the dedicated efforts of community scientists, our knowledge of Maine’s bumble bees is greatly improved.

Registration is free and required in order to receive the Zoom link for the presentation. The Zoom link will be sent out to registrants before the event. For more information and to sign-up, visit KELT’s website at www.kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events or call (207) 442-8400. 

Kalyn Bickerman-Martens is a Ph.D. candidate in ecology and environmental sciences at the University of Maine and her work focuses on the health of Maine’s bumble bees and wild blueberry pollination. Her research interests include disease ecology and the natural history of Maine. Learn more about the Maine Bumble Bee Atlas at www.mainebumblebeeatlas.umf.maine.edu