Bees play a critical roll in our ecosystem by pollinating crops and plants. Due to factors like habitat loss, increased pesticide use, and climate change, bee populations are rapidly declining.
Here are five things you can do to “bee” the change and help save the bees:
Plant a Bee-Friendly Garden
By planting native plants that are rich in pollen and nectar, you can help provide bees (and other pollinators) the food they need to survive.
Some pollinator-friendly plants include: lupine (Lupinus perennis), lead plant (Amorpha canescens), virginia bluebell (Mertensia virginica), compass plant (Silphium laciniatum), butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), and false white indigo (Baptisia alba).
Avoid Using Pesticides
Pesticides can be harmful to bees and other pollinators. Try to avoid using pesticides, but if you can’t, choose ones that are bee-friendly and apply them at night when bees are less active.
Create Bee Habitats
Bees need places to nest and hibernate. Leave areas of your garden untamed to provide nesting spots. Many bees live in holes inside of trees, logs, or hollow stems – so wait until spring to cut back dead flowers and stems to give the bees a cozy home to hibernate. You can also purchase or create a DIY bee house!
Support Local Beekeepers
Buying honey and beeswax products from local beekeepers supports local business and helps promote healthy bee populations! Not only is local honey delicious, it is also made from local flora, which can help with seasonal allergies.
Become a Community Scientist
Join a global movement that collects important data that can help save the bees! Community science volunteers help us collect valuable wildlife data that we use to make land management and conservation decisions.
Learn more about the FPWC Community Science volunteer program here!
It may seem like a daunting task, but doing your small part can make an impact on the declining bee population. These 5 ways to save the bees are an easy way to give back to the pollinators and the environment. Remember, “bee” the change you want to see in the world!
