Help the bees: Richmond Hill brings to the buzz to native trees

Yorkregion.com
March 22, 2022

As we usher in spring, the busiest time of year for the bees, the City of Richmond Hill offers buzzworthy tips for enhancing pollinator habitat in your neighbourhoods.

A virtual event is scheduled for April 25 for Richmond Hill residents who are interested in learning about supporting local bees.

Pollinators such as bees help plants produce seeds and the fruits that hold them. It is estimated that 35 per cent of global crop production relies on pollinators.

Many people think of planting flowering annuals and perennials in an effort to help the bees, but did you know trees and shrubs can produce hundreds of pollen-laden flowers on just one plant?

Residents are expected to learn which native trees best support local bees and other tips to enhance their habitat at the one-hour-and-half virtual presentation.

A self-led activity sheet will allow the attendees to see how many bee-friendly trees are in their own neighbourhoods.

The free event supported by the City of Richmond Hill and Ontario Power Generation requires registration.

In 2018, Richmond Hill received a Bee City Designation from Bee City Canada for its efforts and commitment to protecting pollinators and their habitat.

The city is currently implementing a number of programs to foster natural and built communities that support pollinators, including its environment strategy and participation in the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge and Bee City Canada programs.

The virtual presentation runs from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. on April 25.