1. Webinar: Demystifying iNaturalist

Tomorrow we will have a webinar hosted by Jerry Paul on how to use iNaturalist for recording your sample events on your phone. We will run the webinar live tomorrow (March 20th) at 4pm.

You can log-in and join ask questions (at the following link, or by calling 720 202 2699 - meeting ID 685 271 564), or listen to a recording (posted on the website and in the next blog) at your leisure.

Our next webinar will be March 27th with Rich Hatfield, who will let you know how you can get involved in the PNW Bumble Bee Atlas - and some great new features to make things easier for Atlas members to contribute.

2. Willow Sampling Update

The turn in the weather has FINALLY meant willows are starting to bloom. We will be doing our first willow collection events this weekend on the coast (Myrtle Point - 23 March; Newport - 25 March). Keep in mind, just because willows are starting to bloom in Western Oregon, the bloom will continue for over a month in many locations (and beyond if you move up in elevation). Eastern Oregon - hold tight.

Also, if you were involved with the Atlas last year and you want to start collecting, feel free to begin catching and pinning bees!!!

Julie Biddle noted that on March 11 “Less than five percent of Sitka (?) willows have anthers”. Ankeny wildlife refuge near Salem.

Steve Gomes noting that willow at Beaverton Creek Wetlands are still closed up on March 12.

Lincoln Best noted (March 16): “A few species of Willow at Talking Water Gardens in Albany. Should be great for a few weeks. Catkins were just opening today with a few Queen vos visiting”.

Briana Lindh and some of the Salem Team went out collecting on March 17. Briana notes: “Willow sampling in Salem! Most willows weren't ready - but the two open ones were buzzing”.