Bee Bioblitz

Discover and Document Local Pollinators with the Oswego Lake Watershed Council

The 2025 Bee BioBlitz is a community-driven event hosted by the Oswego Lake Watershed Council (OLWC), where residents of Lake Oswego explore, document, and learn about local pollinators. The event offers an exciting opportunity to get outside, engage with nature, and contribute to an important scientific effort.

Using the iNaturalist app, participants will help track and record pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other important species that support our ecosystems. Whether you’re new to the world of pollinators or a seasoned naturalist, this event is for everyone — no experience necessary!

Discover the Fascinating World of Lake Oswego’s Bees!
Join us for an up-close look at the diverse bee species of the Portland area, from the mighty Bumblebees to the tiny Miner Bees. Learn about their favorite flowers, the best spots to discover their baby nurseries, and get answers to intriguing questions like: What looks like a bee but isn’t? and Why do Bumblebees sleep on flowers overnight? We’ll also dive into Bee-Friendly Practices you can adopt to create a welcoming environment for these essential pollinators right in your own yard. Don’t miss the chance to join our live Q&A session at the end — bring your questions and curiosity!

Leah Puhlman is an Oregon State University Extension Master Gardener and instructor for the 10-Minute University™ Program. With years of experience raising mason bees and contributing to the PNW Bumble Bee Atlas, Leah is also the unofficial bee wrangler at the Oregon Zoo.

She and her husband have transformed their Portland-area garden into a certified wildlife habitat. Leah’s garden philosophy is centered around Compassionate Gardening, focusing on plants that support wildlife while honoring those that evoke memories of loved ones.

Justin Boyles is the Conservation Advocate for Environment Oregon, leading efforts to protect and restore Oregon’s special places and the wildlife they support. He has worked on campaigns to protect the Roadless Area Conservation Rule, clean up Willamette River superfund sites, and promote solar energy in the state. Previously, Justin was part of the Public Interest Network’s Creative and Editorial team, developing campaign materials and creating tools to drive successful environmental campaigns. He lives in Portland with his children, exploring Oregon’s diverse landscapes, from the coast to the high desert, rivers, forests, and mountains.

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