In the online portion of the workshop, participants will learn about the four field locations that will be toured, and the process of starting habitats on blueberry farms (organic, conventional, southern highbush, rabbiteye). Included is information on site selection, soil preparation, species selection, implementation, species performance, seed mixes vs. transplants, and best management practices.

Participants will also learn about wild bee genera and species in Georgia, their diet and nesting needs, phenology, and identification. Additionally, participants will learn about natural enemies important for biological control of blueberry pests.

Particular attention will be given on using CPA, DIA, CEMA, and WHEG tools for pollinator habitats. In the field, all of the above topics will be reviewed with opportunity for hands-on observations, collection, and identification of plants and insects.

To register, contact Noah McCoard, USDA NRCS: noah.mccoard@usda.gov.