GLNF CESU: Understanding Native Bee Diversity and Distribution in Great Lakes National Parks- GLRI

Ninety percent of the world's flowering plant species depend on insect pollination for reproduction. Native bees are one of the most imperiled groups of pollinators. Native bees play a significant role in our ecosystems and are the most effective pollinators across the diverse habitats of the Great Lakes basin. This project will expand the understanding of the status, distribution, and habitat needs of native bees in Great Lakes national parks. This project will also help to identify areas in the Great Lakes Basin where habitat management, restoration, and conservation may have the greatest benefit for native bee species.  The scientific community gains by new knowledge provided through this research and related results dissemination of native bee pollinator communities in the Great Lakes.  Recipient will study the native bee fauna in Great Lakes national parks. While hundreds of native bee species occur in the Great Lakes Basin, their distribution, habitat associations, and management needs are poorly known. The goal of this project is to survey native bees at several Great Lakes national parks. Bee specimens collected from a variety of habitats at Great Lakes national parks will be identified to species or lowest taxonomic resolution possible by expert bee taxonomists at University of Minnesota (UMN). UMN will maintain a specimen-level database with associated collection and identification data. Recipient and NPS will collaborate on data analysis. Results of studies will be published and available to the public. The project will complement current research and inventorying and monitoring activities of NPS and inform restoration and management efforts. This project will also contribute to a greater understanding of native bee biodiversity and conservation. 

Education

• Public and state institutions of higher education