Hundreds of amateur “citizen scientists” have begun studying the Pacific Northwest area of the United States. They are seeking to learn more about the nearly 30 species of bumblebees that live there. Bumblebees are important for the growth of wild and agricultural plants. They help spread the substances that make it possible for flowers to reproduce through the process known as pollination. But some bumblebee species have disappeared from the places where they were once common. The new, three-year-long research effort is known as the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas project. Organizations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington are working together as part of it. Researchers hope to collect enough information to suggest ways to protect bumblebees and their habitat.