[Pollinator] Nature�s hidden bees help in pollinations

[Matthew Shepherd (Xerces Society)]

Nature’s hidden bees help in pollinations
John Schmitz; 12/8/05
Full article in Capital Press Agriculture Weekly (Salem, OR), at: http://www.capitalpress.info/main.asp?SectionID=67&SubSectionID=792&ArticleID=21525&TM=39146.52

They’re on the job earlier, put in longer hours, shun bad weather and don’t charge a dime, which is exactly why growers should consider attracting more native bees to their fields and orchards, says one entomologist.

There are about 150 species of pollen-carrying native bees, including bumblebees and Mason bees, that inhabit the Willamette Valley, said Mace Vaughan, conservation director at the Xerces Society in Portland. He said there are 18 species of bumblebees in the region.

In any one field at a given time, at least 20 species of bees can be going about their business.

While many growers today don’t give native, or solitary, bees a second thought, the little invertebrates can improve pollinations in many crops. But the welcome mat in the form of certain incentives must be put out, Vaughan told organic growers gathered in Salem recently for the Oregon Tilth annual convention.

These incentives amount to, primarily, the establishment of native plants and opportunities for the building of nesting sites in pesticide-free zones.

Abandoned rodent holes and decaying timber stands are two nesting sites preferred by native bees, Vaughan said.
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The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation
Protecting wildlife through science-based advocacy, education, 
and conservation projects since 1971. To join the Society, make a 
contribution, or read about our work, please visit www.xerces.org.

Matthew Shepherd
Director, Pollinator Conservation Program
4828 SE Hawthorne Boulevard, Portland, OR 97215, USA
Tel: 503-232 6639 Fax: 503-233 6794
Email: mdshepherd at xerces.org 
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