The welfare of our entire planet rests in the hands of pollinators. Of course there are other things that could happen and totally wipe out the human race like if the Yellowstone volcano were to erupt or if a meteor were to hit the Earth and we went out like the dinosaurs, but if pollinators’ populations continue to recede, we’ll find ourselves facing the same problems of critical air quality and lack of natural resources.

Pollinators like bees, bats, birds and butterflies carry pollen from plant to plant, fertilizing the plants so they can grow seeds and thus more plants grow. Not only are the benefiting plants nice to look at, they also feed us and clean the air for us. Honey bees in particular are especially beneficial to humanity because of the honey they make.

While there are over 20,000 known species of bees in the world, only honey bees make honey. Locally-sourced raw honey not only supports local beekeepers and the honey bees they keep, it also benefits the consumer. Raw honey has shown to be naturally antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial meaning that it benefits the immune system and supports overall wellness.

Research also shows that eating locally-sourced honey can also help ease seasonal allergies. Since the honey comes from the same pollen that causes seasonal allergies, eating the pollen after honey bees have made it into honey has shown to help ease allergy symptoms such as coughing, sneezing and itchy eyes.

Bee-killing pesticides, diseases, habitat loss and even electromagnetic radiation from cell phone towers are killing honey bees (research has shown that electromagnetic radiation stemming from cell phones and towers negatively impacts young queen bees in their early stages of life). While pesticides and land development certainly have their advantages for humans, it may not turn out to be so advantageous in the long run. However, as individuals and families, we can take steps to combat the loss of our friends, the honey bees.

One way to help is to plant bee-friendly fruit, vegetable and other flowering plants in your garden or somewhere else bees can freely access them. Lavender is famous for its beautiful color and smell and is a healthy option for bees. Common chives taste great with lots of different foods and honey bees love the blossoms.

As we head into the colder months of the year, look for flowers that bloom early in spring like snowdrops, daffodils and hyacinths that will be sources of nectar and pollen for honey bees as the ice and snow begin to melt. Flowering fruit trees like apple or cherry trees are also great options if you have the space and time to take care of them. The Wyoming Native Plant Society has resources available for learning to plant and take care of plants native to the
Wyoming area.

I understand that not everyone wants to welcome bees into their proximity. If you’re worried about a hive near your house or any other place you frequent, please don’t call the exterminator. There are a number of beekeepers in the Torrington area that will relocate the hive without killing the bees, and many of them will do it for free. More information is available through the American Beekeeping Federation.

Remember, honey bees are our friends and we need to take care of them, and the more you learn about them, the harder it is to not want to help them.