About Us
Photo by Patricia Simpson
About CalNBS
Our mission is to protect California’s native bees by fostering sustainable stewardship through research, education, and conservation.
Activities may include outreach, education, organizing and participating in research projects, organizing and participating in habitat restoration projects, and advocating for policies that conserve habitat, minimize use of insecticides, and protect native bees. A small part of our activities may include membership drives, fundraising, and applying for grants to fund activities related to protecting California’s native bees.
Outreach
Interact with the public including tabling at events or conferences and talking to people in person. We will organize bioblitz events to encourage members of the public to document native bees for community science platforms such as iNaturalist or the California Bumble Bee Atlas. Develop social media campaigns to excite the public about native bees and native bee-related topics such as their connection with native plants.
Education
Develop public-facing outreach projects to engage the broader community. This includes monthly webinars, educational events, and speaking to groups.
Research Projects
Lead the effort to monitor and document native bees across the state, including organizing a California Bee Atlas. This will contribute to a state-wide checklist and identify conservation priorities. This work involves compiling information from museum collections, field observations, and community science platforms and projects.
Habitat Restoration
As opportunities arise, we may organize and/or participate in habitat restoration activities.
Advocating for Native Bee-friendly Policies
Engage in strategic political action and public education. We may monitor legislation, draft public comments, build relationships with policymakers, and coordinate advocacy campaigns on issues like pesticide use, land use, and habitat protection.
Membership and Fundraising
Support native bee-related activities with membership funds from individuals, and pursue fundraising opportunities by applying for grants and partnering with other organizations.
