How to save bees: seven ways you can help

Bees are one of the main pollinators on our planet and are responsible for the health of a large number of plants. Without bees, we could not support the agriculture needed to feed the Earth's population. Unfortunately, bee colonies are declining in some areas and disappearing completely in others. Learn how to save bees and discover the best ways you can help this unique insect.

Striking facts about the collapse of bee colonies

Colony collapse disorder is a relatively recent disease affecting bee populations around the world. The main symptom of this disorder is the disappearance of all worker bees from the hive. The worker bees leave behind the queen and a few nurse bees to care for the young larvae, along with plenty of food. Below are five facts you need to know about colony collapse disorder bees.

- Scientists don't know exactly what causes bee colonies to collapse. Suggested causes include a virus or parasite, pesticides or environmental changes, also climate change and habitat loss, but the science is still completely uncertain.
- Due to the collapse of bee colonies, some species are now endangered. In 2017, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced some startling news - several bee species will be listed as endangered.
- Bees are responsible for the production of more than $15 billion in agricultural and skin care products each year.
- Almonds are pollinated almost exclusively by bees. Almond farmers now have to pay more than three times the cost to have beekeepers bring hives to pollinate their crops. This results in higher prices for the consumer.
- So far, the colony collapse disorder has cost the beekeeping industry $2 billion to replace the 10 million hives affected by the disruption.

Seven ideas

There are many ways to help save bees and help the environment. Whether you're wondering how to save bees or how to help endangered species in general, use these ideas to help the bee population and protect agriculture.

1. Start a garden with your friends, relatives or acquaintances

Plant a garden with vegetables, herbs and flowers that attract bees. Raise awareness for your cause by starting a fundraiser for your grog from acquaintances, friends or relatives and collect donations to purchase garden supplies. Here are some helpful guidelines on what to include in your bee garden:

- Start by making your garden bee-friendly by planting flowers that are blue, purple or yellow. Bees can't see red tones, so avoid red and pink flowers so the bees can actually get to the pollen.
- Bees especially like herbs like lavender, mint, coriander and basil. You can also grow native plant species in your area, which helps both the bees and the environment.
- The seeds of leafy greens are a staple winter food for bees. Plants such as kale, collard greens and cabbage leave seeds after harvest.
- Place a small tray of water and change it daily. Including something to drink will help keep honey bees in your garden longer.
- Do not use pesticides as even organic pesticides are harmful to bees. Use other methods to repel pests, such as planting garlic or rotating crops to keep your garden and your bees healthy.

2. Support local farming

Like many insects, bees have a symbiotic relationship with their local environment by helping crops thrive. Bees and other pollinators are responsible for the production of 87% of the world's food crops. By supporting local agriculture, you help local populations live and thrive. Shop at your local farmer's market whenever possible, and buy skin care products that are made from local beeswax.

3. Raise money for charity

Start a "save the bees campaign" and collect donations for environmental charities or organizations that help save bee populations. Or help your local area and start a fundraiser to benefit local beekeepers and farmers. Share your fundraising on social media to gather even more support to save bees.

Start a campaign now on PavelAndreev.ORG.

And in our help center you can see What are the conditions for starting a campaign?

4. Building habitats for bees

The preferred pre-built natural habitat for bees is simply a rough wooden block with lots of holes. Bees love to burrow and nest, and creating bee habitat will encourage these beneficial pollinators to return to your neighborhood to collect the pollen and nectar they need. Cover the holes with chicken wire to make sure the birds will leave the bees alone. By nature, many species of bees are solitary, so there's no need to worry about attracting an entire hive to your yard.

5. Volunteer with your local beekeeping society

Most areas have a local beekeeping society, and many need help from volunteers. You can donate your time to help with community relations events or organize a non-profit fundraiser to collect donations for the society.

6. Join your local beekeeping club

If you are interested in having your own hive, joining a beekeeping club is a great way to get started. Participating in your local beekeeping club can be a fun way to meet others in your community who care about the environment, and develop your beekeeping skills in the process. If you're not quite ready to join a beekeeping club, you might consider some online options like beekeeping groups on Facebook or YouTube videos on the topic.

7. Sponsor a hive

As bee populations decline, the cost of commercial bee pollination skyrockets. This means farmers have to pay more to pollinate their crops, passing that cost on to the consumer in the form of higher prices. By sponsoring a hive, you help both beekeepers and farmers reduce costs and stay in business.

Also check out our article on How to ask for financial help: your guide in 4 steps

Start your campaign to help and save bees today

Help bees by starting a fundraiser to support conservation efforts. Bees are important to securing the world's agricultural supply, and the health of the bee population is important to each and every one of us. Contact me today to start fundraising and see how you can make a difference with a little effort!