Protecting our Pollinators

 When people hear the word “bee” they often think of a single bee species, the European honey bee (Apis mellifera). However, the United States is also home to just over 3,600 native (wild) bee species such as bumble bees, leafcutter bees, sweat bees, mason bees, longhorn bees, and mining bees. Native pollinators are particularly important because they evolved alongside native plants and in many cases are the most effective pollinators — and in a few cases, the only pollinators. Pollinators are keystone species in essentially every terrestrial ecosystem on earth, assisting in plant reproduction and supporting other species of wildlife. Pollinators touch our lives in numerous ways each day, including being responsible for approximately one third of the food and drink we consume. The value of crop pollination has been estimated between $18 and $27 billion annually in the U.S.

Research has shown significant declines in native pollinator population sizes and ranges globally. In fact, up to 40% of pollinator species on earth may be at risk of extinction in the coming years as a result of habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. 

Thinking globally and acting locally, Bee City USA provides a framework for communities to come together to conserve native pollinators by providing them with healthy habitat that is rich in a variety of native plants, provides nest sites, and is protected from pesticides. 

As the name suggests, the focus of Bee City USA is bees, and primarily our native species. The steps that Reno and other member cities take to conserve our bees, including creating safe habitats and hosting community events, will also help other pollinators including butterflies and moths as well as the honey bee. One of the most impactful actions any city can take is to encourage others to think beyond the honey bee and recognize the true diversity of bees that sustain our communities.  

As the city of Reno grows, we see Reno's commitment to pollinator health as one more way we keep the "Little" in the Biggest Little City in the World.