Support the Honey Bee and Other Pollinators

Pollinator week is dedicated to enlightening others about what pollinators are, their purpose and how to help support them. However, awareness and action should be taken more than just seven days a year. Here are a few quick facts about the important role pollinators, such as honey bees, play in our ecosystem and how you can play your own role in protecting them!

First of all, what are pollinators?
Pollinators are animals or insects that cause plants to make fruit or seeds. This is done by transporting pollen from one part of the flower of a plant to another. A few examples of pollinators are bees, birds, butterflies and bats.

Why does this matter you might ask?
Throughout the world, there are about 1,000 plants we depend on that require the process of pollination to produce food. In the United States alone roughly $40 billion worth of products are produced because of pollination from bees and other insects. More specifically honey bees account for about 80% of all pollination. Foods that are produced from pollination include chocolate, blueberries, apples, melons and coffee. It is clear to see that these small life forms have a huge impact on our ecosystem as well as economy.

What can you do to help?
Due to chemical use, loss of habitat, disease and other causes, the U.S. has lost more than 50% of managed honey bee colonies over the last 10 years. Even the smallest bit of action will help to protect bees and other pollinators. Simple tasks such as planting native plants in your garden and reducing the use of pesticides make a difference. Initiate an effort to buy local food and recycle! Another great way to get involved is to volunteer with organizations such as the Pollinator Partnership, which works effortlessly to find new ways to bring awareness and support to these important organisms.

Figure out how you can take action and support our ecosystem. Even if it’s simply following along on Facebook you are still gaining knowledge to share! At Sioux Honey, we launched a national initiative to educate consumers about the U.S.A. honey bee by creating a special seal located on certain bottles of honey. This seal makes it easier for consumers to find pure, American-made honey.

Share how you plan to take action to protect the U.S.A. honey bee and other pollinators with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!