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How to conduct a Garden Survey
As mentioned before, bumble-watchers can complete one or both components of the Arkansas Bumblebee Survey. The garden survey should take place in a garden (can be vegetable, flower, or combination of both). If you don't have your own garden, this component of the survey can also be conducted at a garden in a park or other public space.
Quick Guide to Arkansas Bumblebees
Garden Protocol
Print copies of the Garden Data Sheet. The garden survey should only be conducted between May 1-July 1 on warm, sunny days (above 60°F) between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Surveys should not be conducted when it is windy or raining. Record weather conditions on the data sheet(s). It is important that data sheets be filled out as completely as possible in order to ensure usefulness.
Measure the size of your garden. Pace out the width and length of your garden and convert number of paces to yards. Then multiply them (width x length) together to roughly determine the size of your garden in square yards. Record garden size on the data sheet(s).
Between May 1 and July 1 make at least three observations of bumblebees in your garden. Ideally, individual observations would occur on multiple days throughout the May-June period. If you feel like surveying more than three times, please feel free. You can also conduct surveys at multiple garden sites if you feel like it. The more data we receive the better. Just make sure that you use separate data sheets for each observation period.
For each observation period, spend 10 minutes watching the bumblebees that visit your garden. We are asking that surveyors spend that exact amount of time per observation period in order to standardize results statewide.
Maintain a safe distance between yourself and the bumblebees you are watching. If need be, you could even use binoculars to get a more detailed view of the individual you are observing. As the bumblebees forage from flowers, note their color patterns and use the Guide to Arkansas Bumblebees to identify the individual to species. Record the bumblebee species you see in your garden on the data sheet(s). Don't worry if you miss some, we don't expect every bumblebee in your garden to be identified.
After the 10 minute observation period is complete, list the plants that are blooming in your garden that day and note which ones the bumblebees seem to prefer most. Record that information on the data sheet(s).
When you have finished your surveys for the season, mail your completed forms to:
Arkansas Bumblebee Survey
Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission
1500 Tower Building
323 Center Street
Little Rock, AR 72201
Disclaimer: Bumblebees are capable of delivering a venomous sting. Caution should be exercised in the presence of any stinging insect. Participation in the survey is voluntary. The Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission assumes no responsibility or liability for any injuries sustained by individuals participating in this survey.
