At its core, the WiBee app is a citizen-scientist bee observation tool. Growers and interested citizen scientists, like you, who use the app will be collecting data on the bees that are visiting flowers on fruit and vegetable crops across Wisconsin. As we continue to develop the program, you will be able to see more detailed information and recommendations in the app about wild bee pollination management specific to your farm.
Your role in this program is important. Citizen scientists have become incredibly important to the study of insect ecology, by collecting more biological data across spatial and temporal scales. It is challenging for one research team to collect data all over Wisconsin during each crop bloom. With your eyes on the ground, we can gather a more robust dataset on wild bee abundance, pollination, and ultimately their impact on fruit set and yield in our food system.
3 Easy Steps to Get Started
Step 1: Learn to identify bees
We have simplified the more than 400 wild bee species in Wisconsin into just 5 categories of bees. Before you use the app, get comfortable identifying these bees with our quick guide.
Step 2: Learn how to collect data
We have a few tips to ensure that your bee observations count! Take a few minutes to read our guide to collecting data.
Step 3: Download the app and begin surveying bees
If you are familiar with the six insect categories in the app and have reviewed our data collection guide, you're ready to use the app!
