Step 1: Get a Bumble Bee Watch Account
This account will keep track of your bumble bee observations and photographs, and you will use this username to adopt a grid cell.
If you do not have a Bumble Bee Watch account, please create an account, and be sure to select Minnesota Bumble Bee Atlas as your project! This will help us keep track of user participation and data for the project.
If you already have one, all you need to do is register for the Minnesota Bumble Bee Atlas project! To do this simple step, start by logging in (www.BumbleBeeWatch.org), click on your user name at the top right of the page, and this will bring you to your profile. In the left corner above your photo, click “edit”. Scroll towards the bottom to the last drop-down box labeled as “Project” and select Minnesota BBA, and then click save.
In either case, please remember and take note of your username and email address, as they will be used throughout the project when submitting data.
Step 2: Find a Survey Location
Start by finding an area on the map that you would like to survey. It might be somewhere close to home, family-owned land, a camping spot, or a part of the state you would like to explore.
To find a particular address or location, use the search bar in the top left corner of the map on the Adopt a grid cell page or use our Google Map.
Step 3: Record Grid Cell Code
Zoom in to your desired survey area and find out which grid cell you're located in. Record the grid cell's alphanumeric code, for example MN_53.
Keep in mind the project's priority categories and be aware of special procedures for areas requiring a permit from the USFWS to handle bumble bees. Dark and light purple are the preferred survey areas, but grey cells are still available for adoption. Green grid cells are the only adoptable by individuals named in a USFWS recovery permit. In purple grid cells with red areas, all surveys must be outside red areas.
Step 4: Complete Adoption Form
Scroll down beneath the interactive map, and you'll find a form to fill out. Make sure you have your Bumble Bee Watch username and grid cell code(s) ready.
Please only adopt a grid cell if you are willing to commit to the minimum requirements.
We cannot confirm the selection of your grid cell unless you fill out the form, so please complete this step. Once fully confirmed, you will receive an email from us confirming your selection (within 2-3 business days).
You're done!
Ready to Adopt a Grid Cell? Click here
