Citizens Across the Southeast Invited to Participate in the 2026 Great Southeast Pollinator Census

Citizens, gardeners, and nature enthusiasts across the Southeastern United States are gearing up to take part in a vital regional conservation initiative later this month. The 2026 Great Southeast Pollinator Census, spearheaded by the University of Georgia Extension, will take place on Friday, August 21, and Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Open to residents across Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi, the annual initiative encourages community members of all ages to step into the role of citizen scientists. Participants spend just 15 minutes observing a blooming plant to record visiting insects, generating crucial data that helps researchers track pollinator health, population trends, and habitat sustainability across the region.

In Honor of a Gardening Champion

This year’s census carries special significance, as organizers have formally dedicated the 2026 project to the memory of Walter Reeves—remembered across the region as a trusted voice, passionate educator, and tireless champion for gardens and native pollinators. In a nod to the natural world, organizers also revealed that lady beetles serve as the featured theme for the official 2026 “I Counted!” participant stickers.

How to Join the Count

Participating in the regional census requires no professional scientific background. Organizers encourage interested residents to get involved through a few simple steps ahead of the August count days:

1. Sign Up for Updates: Participants can subscribe to the project newsletter to receive news, reminders, and counting protocols directly in their inbox.

2. Gather Resources: Participants can download printable counting sheets (Guía de Conteo) alongside the official Insect Counting and Identification Guide (Conteo de Insectos y Guía de Identificación), available in both English and Spanish.

3. Connect Online: Observers are invited to join the official Southeast Pollinator Census Facebook group and follow @SoutheastPollinators on Instagram to share photos, post counts, and connect with fellow participants across the Southeast.

Multi-State Leadership

The project relies on a collaborative network of state cooperative extension offices to coordinate local participation across state lines:

• National & Georgia Coordinator: Becky Griffin (University of Georgia Extension)

• South Carolina Coordinator: Amy Dabbs (Clemson Extension)

• North Carolina Coordinator: Amanda Bratcher (North Carolina Cooperative Extension)

• Florida Coordinator: Jeremy Rhoden (University of Florida Extension)

• Alabama Coordinator: Bethany O’Rear (Alabama Cooperative Extension)

• Mississippi Coordinator: Kaylin Bruening (Mississippi State University’s Coastal Conservation & Restoration Program)

For downloadable counting sheets, educational guides, and registration links, visit the official Great Southeast Pollinator Census portal online.