SAVE THE BEES!

Spring is here and with it comes spring showers, green grass, and lots of flowers. And, with the flowers comes the wonderful array of bugs that bring our gardens to life. Although we sometimes are annoyed by pesky little insects, they play a key role in what we eat today, especially the pollinators such as the honey bee--- one of the first signs of spring as they gather pollen and nectar to fuel their high energy as well as feed their young. Through their hard work, pollen and seeds are transferred from one plant to another, fertilizing the plants so they can grow and produce food. We would not have fruits, vegetables, or field crops if it weren't for bees. 85% or plants exist because of bees and almonds, for example, are 100% dependent on the honeybee. Think about your favorite fruits and vegetables such as apples, cucumbers, watermelon, squash---they grow only if pollinated. More than $15 billion a year in U.S crops are pollinated by bees, and honey bees produce about $150 million in honey annually. Unfortunately, since the mid 2000's, bees have been mysteriously vanishing which effects everyone on the planet. A decline in the bee population means lower crop yields and increased production costs. Colony collapse has been caused by several factors including global warming, increased use of pesticides, habitat loss and parasites. Much effort is in place to stop the decline of the bee population and there are many things you can do to help save bees. Plant a bee friendly garden Buy local honey Avoid harsh lawn chemicals Wear Foot Traffic novelty bee socks to remind others how great bees really are!