Krystie Morrison
kemorrison@lc.edu

You see them everywhere but what do we really know about the bees and their needs? Bees are essential to our lives and without them we lose a lot of things including, but not limited to: specific plants, fruits and vegetables and even other wildlife.

Over the last decade the number of bees have been dwindling at a very alarming rate. According to preliminary data from the Bee Informed Partnership, between October 1st, 2018, and April 1st, 2019, researchers have found that 37.7% of colonies managed by commercial beekeepers have declined. This is the highest percentage of population loss to be documented since the survey began back in 2006. 

Reasons for major decline include parasites invading hives, exposure to pesticides and loss of habitat. These factors are affecting populations of bees in nature as well as farmers colonies.   

There are multiple ways to help save the bee population! You can start a bee friendly garden, support local beekeepers by purchasing their products, and you can even sponsor a hive.

Lewis and Clark is assisting the bee population by planting bee friendly plants that are inviting to these tiny insects. As you walk around campus, you will notice an increase in bees because of those mesmerizing purple plants in almost every flower bed. 

The “Sense-Sational Blooms” garden is not the only one to showcase bee friendly plants. Lewis and Clark has been helping the bee population ever since their 2014 summer garden show, “Bee-Dazzled” which showcased sunflowers, morning glories and many other flowers that attract bees. 

It is vital to the bee population to become a bee ambassador. Help your friends and family to learn more about these wonderful tiny creatures. For more information on the decline of the bees and how we can help save them, please visit www.thehoneybeeconservancy.org.