Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs) have participated in a variety of citizen science projects providing new knowledge. This knowledge acquisition may not occur without the assistance of EMGs. Research projects that are focused on consumer horticulture challenges are not typically given a high priority by those who financially support scientific research in consumer horticulture. Therefore, researchers turn to EMGs as citizen scientists to assist with consumer horticulture research. In 2022, Ohio State University partnered with the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanic Garden, Dawes Arboretum, and Ohio EMGs to evaluate 10 cultivars of native plants to determine if they were attractive to pollinators. EMGs were tapped to monitor the cultivars and collect data on abundance and diversity of species. Thirteen Ohio counties with EMG programs were involved in this research along with the partners. The first year of data collection was a pilot year and the second year was the first year for data analysis. In this session you will learn about the steps involved in this research project as well as the challenges addressed and benefits to both the EMGs and the consumer. You will also learn about the results of the research.
