OK, so it’s kind of a joke with me, in the least funny way, that I have been stung nine times in my life, in three different countries. It’s like there’s an insect Interpol and I’m on the 10 Most Wanted List. So yeah, I worry about bees.
But it turns out that there’s this thing called Colony Collapse Disorder, and it’s kind of a BFD in Agri-Land. (Psst, we live in Agri-Land, drive in any direction for more than 12 minutes). Often when industrial hives turn up empty, the success of a crop season can rely on native bees.
Local communities can encourage wild bee populations by making a “Pollinator House” where solitary, non-stinging(!) mason bees (and other pollinators) can lay eggs and hatch young. Even if you don’t save your local farmer, you can definitely boost the beauty of your garden, which in turn helps purify the air.
These nesting boxes are easy to make, “an inexpensive and educational project for kids and families to enjoy,” says Farmtown Manager Paula Blakley. That’s why her store is teaming up with the U of I Extension Master Gardeners to help the community learn to build their own out of recycled materials.
So if you’re worried about bees, head out to FS Farmtown at 1509 E. University Ave. on Saturday 2/27 in the morning (10-11 a.m.) or afternoon (1-2 p.m.) for this hands-on seminar. You do have to register on Illini FS Farmtown’s Facebook page. For more information contact Farmtown at 217-384-8303 or to “BEE” a part of this event email coordinator Nani Baker or call 217-550-5696.