A UNH study of 125 years of records indicated that 14 native bee species are in decline in the Northeast.
To Bee or Not to Bee
Last year 38% of the US bee population perished. The reasons? Climate
change and pesticide use, are the most threatening today. You may have
noticed your shrubs, trees and native wildflowers are blooming earlier
and along with milder winters with little snow cover.
Research has shown these conditions are throwing off the natural rhythm of things in the plant and animal world.
According to the Food and Agricultural Organization of the U.N., 78% to
94% of the Earth’s flower and seed-producing plants depend on bees and
other animal pollinators to live.
These are the crops that would be most affected if honey bees disappeared.
What you can do in Wilton:
1.
Stop using harmful pesticides. These high-risk
categories aren’t good for you, your children or your pets either:
diazinon, Imidan, malathion and Sevin. Look into alternatives like Or
ganocide® Bee Safe 3-in-1 Garden Spray, an insecticide, miticide, and fungicide that has been used in organic gardening for more than 27 years.
2.
Rethink your lawn and plant a bee garden.
There are some excellent sources of information on flowering plants
that create stunning, relatively maintenance-free landscaping and
attract pollinators.
3.
Take up Bee-keeping. There are many excellent
books for beginners and reading is the best way to get started. Even one
hive in your yard can make a big difference in the health of your
flowers and trees.
