Programming supports a comprehensive network of cooperative study units to facilitatecooperative research- technical assistance- education- and training to inform science-based management ofthe…

This Cooperative Agreement award from the National Park Service under the Cooperative Research and Training Programs - Resources of the National Park System (CFDA 15.945) provides $146,365.32 to the University of Wyoming to assess the presence of bee species at Fossil Butte National Monument and inform elk management actions. The project will compare the occurrence of pollinators between enclosed and open areas and summarize plant-pollinator differences, with the goal of providing science-based information to support management of the National Park System. This award, effective April 2, 2024 through September 30, 2027, supports the broader program objectives of facilitating multidisciplinary research, technical assistance, education, and training to inform science-based management of national parks across multiple geographic regions.

Programming supports a comprehensive network of cooperative study units to facilitatecooperative research- technical assistance- education- and training to inform science-based management ofthe national park system. The study units facilitate multi-disciplinary science and integrated informationproducts across multiple geographic regions of the national park system. Fossil butte national monument requires information on pollinator presence to assist with ELK management actions. The possible presence of ground nesting bees is of particular interest. Little is known about the current status of pollinator species in key areas of both parks. This project will assess the presence of BEE species in by sampling for the presence of target species- comparing occurrence between enclosure and open areas and summarizing plant-pollinator differences between these areas. Beneficiaries include state and local governments- federally recognized indian tribal governments- public private nonprofit organizations- nonprofit institutions of higher education- and the general public.