Bumble bees (Bombus) are by far our most charismatic and recognizable native bees. In order to help our bumble bees thrive, we must understand their life cycle and nutritional needs. Heather will illustrate the bumble bee life cycle through the growing season; the importance of selecting the right ... » Learn More about The Bombus Among Us – Bumble Bee Basics
Habitat
Specialist Bees
The monarch butterfly is probably the most famous insect specialist (the caterpillars feed only on milkweed), but did you know that many native bees are also specialists? Female native bee specialists or oligoleges, only collect pollen from a narrow range of native plants; this could mean just one ... » Learn More about Specialist Bees
Gardening for Bees and Butterflies
Learn about the life cycles of bees and butterflies including where and when they nest, forage and seek shelter and food in our landscapes. Learn about pollination and which native plants are specifically pollinated by bees or butterflies. The top native plant species for different habitats will ... » Learn More about Gardening for Bees and Butterflies
Restoring Ecosystem Functionality and Biodiversity
How can humans benefit from green infrastructure and ecological landscape restorations? Heather will discuss ways we can achieve a sustainable coexistence with the rest of life on earth. Models of restorative landscaping including residential and community opportunities will be highlighted, and with ... » Learn More about Restoring Ecosystem Functionality and Biodiversity
Habitat Matters: Lessons Learned From Enhancing Native Bee Habitat on Blueberry Farms
In this presentation you will learn about the current research project I am working on in Minnesota and Wisconsin blueberry farms. I discuss the project objectives and reasons for studying native bees on blueberry farms, the sampling methods, native bee candidates (for blueberry pollination ... » Learn More about Habitat Matters: Lessons Learned From Enhancing Native Bee Habitat on Blueberry Farms