Bees?

Buzz is New Milford is Bee City USA

Besides maybe sharks, insects are among the most reviled creatures in the animal kingdom – they’re creepy, crawly, some carry disease and some sting. Unfortunately for everyone who would like to enjoy a nice summer afternoon without being needlessly pestered, insects are crucial to food chain. Some simply serve as part of the food chain, but some are essential pollinators for the plants in the human food chain. Yes, Bees, despite their reputation are crucial to our ecosystem. And Bee City USA wants to make sure everyone knows that, along with New Milford, who has become the first municipality in our state to be certified as a Bee City.

Before you protest – Bee City USA knows exactly what you’re thinking: “When people hear the word ‘bee’ they often think of a single bee species, the European honey bee (Apis mellifera). However, the United States is also home to just over 3,600 native (wild) bee species […] Native pollinators are particularly important because they evolved alongside native plants and in many cases are the most effective pollinators – and in a few cases, the only pollinators.” They are, in short, responsible for “approximately one third of the food and drink we consume.”

Because they are so crucial, the organization provides resources to towns and cities to help conserve native pollinators. The commitments include establishing a standing Bee City USA committee to advocate for pollinators, create and enhance pollinator habitat on public and private land by increasing the abundance of native plants and providing nest sites, reduce the use of pesticides, incorporate pollinator-conscious practices into city policies and plans, host pollinator awareness events, publicly acknowledge Bee City USA affiliation with signs and an online presence, pay an initial application fee and annual renewal fee, annually apply for renewal and report on the previous year’s activities.

Being ahead of the pack, New Milford had completed these commitments before any other town in the state, and joined Quinnipiac University and the University of Connecticut as Bee Campus USA affiliates.

Beginning this work to protect bees will beget benefits befitting of a town like New Milford with abundant resources. But be careful, not all flying insects that look like bees are bees, and the yellow and black color scheme can belie a bee when that which flies before you is a wasp. If it has a tiny waist and a shiny body – you’re liable to be stung. So be careful and protect bees.