The University of Illinois Extension is looking to educate the public on how to take care of bees and other pollinators.  It comes ahead of National Pollinator Week, which runs from June 16-22.  The USDA says animals pollinate around 75% of flowering plants and 35% of food crops, underscoring the importance of following best practices. 

People in a variety of outdoor roles can play their part in protecting pollinators so they can help our ecosystems thrive.  The Extension recommends beekeepers communicate with nearby farmers and anyone else who sprays pesticides on plants to ensure they avoid doing so near apiaries.  Homeowners are urged to take up Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices to reduce the use of pesticides.  Gardeners are advised to apply pesticides in the early morning or late evening, as pollinators are less active at these times of the day. 

The Extension also reminds people that swarms of bees are usually harmless.  This is because they are focused more on finding a new home than on stinging.  There is no need to panic; simply keep a good distance from them and avoid using loud equipment near swarms. 

More information on the University of Illinois Extension’s events surrounding National Pollinator Week can be found at www.extension.illinois.edu.