Exploring Alaska’s Native Bees through Citizen Science

For decades, scientists had limited knowledge about Alaska’s native bees. The Alaska Beacon, an independent news organization, focuses on bridging the gap between Alaskans and their state government.

On a warm July afternoon near Fairbanks, a volunteer participating in the Alaska Bee Atlas project kneels next to a patch of blooming fireweed. With a net in hand, the volunteer sweeps through the air. A small bumblebee lands in the bottom of the net, becoming one of thousands of specimens gathered each summer across the state. This seemingly simple moment represents a much larger initiative where Alaskans collaborate to study and comprehend the bees that play a vital role in pollinating the North.

The collective efforts of individuals in the region help shed light on the diverse bee species in Alaska. Ongoing research aims to enhance understanding and raise awareness about these essential pollinators.