Bee specialist Lynn Westcott will give a workshop on growing habitat and building nests for wild bees in your backyard on March 9 at 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the RSS library and wood shop.
Many native species of wild bees live in our area and, as pollinators, are essential to the integrity of our local ecosystems and agrosystems. Although they do not provide us with honey like the better known honey bee, the bees themselves are also a source of food for many small animals from woodpeckers to toads.
All species of North American bees have suffered significant declines in recent years and continue to face challenges due to pesticides and habitat loss.
Westcott will give a short talk about bees, their needs, their positive impact on your garden productivity, and how to attract them — for example by planting native plants with bright flowers.
Then participants will move to the wood shop where they will be provided with materials and instruction to build their own nesting blocks. They can take these home to encourage their local wild bee populations to set up permanent residence. Tools will be provided, but bring your own drill and extension cord if you have
Register in advance with Rossland REAL Food by contacting Hanne Smith at 362-7767. The cost is $10/person or $15 for a household. Visit www.rosslandfood.com for more information.
/Rossland News