5 BUZZWORTHY FACTS
ABOUT BEES
1. Pennsylvania is home to hundreds of
species of pollinators (bees, butterflies,
moths, flies and beetles) including
more than 500 species of bees.
2. Crops that require pollination (the
transfer of pollen from one flower
to another, in order to produce
food) contribute $260 million to
Pennsylvania's economy annually.
3. More than 90% of the world's major
crops are visited by bees.
4. Pennsylvania produces one of
the most diverse ranges of fruit
and vegetable crops that rely on
pollinators, compared to other states.
5. American beekeepers are losing
about 40% of their honeybees every
year, up from a previously steady
10%. Pennsylvania beekeepers are
reporting losses between 20 and 90%.
Source: e Pennsylvania Pollinator Protection Plan,
which recommends actions steps including studies on the
effects of climate change and pesticide use on pollinators.
5 WAYS YOU CAN HELP
BEES AND IMPACT CLIMATE
CHANGE:
1. Support local farmers by choosing
locally-grown foods. Look for
USDA organic and certified
sustainable labels, and/or join a local
CSA program.
2. When you dine out, support restaurants
that partner with local farms.
3. Plant native plants, trees and shrubs
that are easy to maintain, use less
water, and support wildlife—
including bees.
4. If you're a homeowner or business
owner whose property includes
grassy areas: Lower the impacts on
groundwater and streams, reduce
fertilizer use and carbon emissions
by converting grassy areas into
natural areas. Establish wildflower
meadows, native plants and trees.
Bonus: No mowing required!
5. Support parks and trails by using
them, joining friends of the park
groups, and volunteering to plant
native trees, participate in bird
counts, clean up trash, maintain
trails, and other eco-friendly
activities.
Source: e Pennsylvania Climate Action Plan
Photos by Emil Rodriguez-Powell
Friends of Midtown volunteers planting a polinator garden
