The world has seen a steady decline in the population of honeybees due to a number of environmental factors, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
To help slow the decline and maintain the health of the existing honeybee population, several local organizations and businesses are dedicated to helping residents learn what they can do at home to help honeybees worldwide.
Matt and Kelly Brantley, owners of Tomball business BZ Honey, and Chari Elam, past board member of the Montgomery County Beekeepers Association and co-owner of Bluebonnet Beekeeping Supplies in Willis, gave advice on why the world is seeing a decline as well as tips to help the population.
What is happening to honeybees?
1.
Varroa mites
The invasive species first appeared in the U.S. in the 1980s and has been a major factor in the honeybee decline. Experts have only recently begun to effectively combat Varroa mites, Elam said.
2.
Pesticides and chemicals
Common landscaping chemicals, sprays and repellents—even those not intended to kill honeybees—can weaken the immune system of honeybees, Matt Brantley said.
3.
Pollution
Elam said animals, including honeybees, must adapt to car exhaust and other air pollutants that affect the environment just as people must adapt.
Why are honeybees important?
1.
Food supply
Honeybees pollinate 80 percent of all fruit, vegetable and seed crops in the U.S. as well as grass and grains, which feed many livestock, such as cows and chickens.
2.
Honey
Aside from serving as a sweetener, the Brantleys said honey is commonly used as an aid in combating allergies, disinfecting small cuts and wounds and in massage therapy.
3.
Plant life
In addition to pollinating food crops, honeybees also help plant life like cotton—used in clothing, medical supplies and other items—reproduce.
What can people do to help?
1.
Plant a garden
Plant citrus trees, such as lime and Meyer lemon, and other plants that bloom in the winter to help provide a steady food source throughout the year.
2.
Practice caution when using pesticides
While yard pests can pose a danger to residents, there are alternatives—like soapy water—to pesticide use that do not also harm honeybees.
3.
Get rid of swarms responsibly
Avoid using bug sprays on honeybees, and act quickly to remove the swarm before bees have a chance to create a new home.