Letter to the editor: Take care of the bees

With spring in full bloom, it’s time for a reminder about the importance of bees to both humans and nature.

Bees don’t just pollinate the flowers in your garden; they pollinate the myriad crops we eat and protect the environment by promoting biodiversity. This has a number of effects, such as preventing soil erosion, preserving soil quality and keeping water clean.

However, bee populations have declined worldwide, jeopardizing our food systems and the natural balance.

While it will take large-scale institutional changes to ensure the recovery of our bee populations, here are some things you can do to be an ally to the bees:

Make your yard a bee-friendly habitat. Plant some plants that bees love, such as pansies, elderberries and cornflowers. Make sure they have access to water.

Try to avoid using pesticides, but if you need to use one, follow this rule: If you don’t have the time to create a bee-friendly habitat, the easiest action is to mow your lawn less frequently. This allows dandelions and clover to grow, which the bees greatly benefit from.

Do what you can to support people and organizations. Go visit one of Humane Action Pittsburgh’s pollinator gardens in Swissvale or Edgewood and post on social media to let your friends and family know, too! Keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities at these centers. They are a great way to do your part while enjoying these beautiful gardens.

Michael Steinfeld

Squirrel Hill

The writer is a volunteer with Humane Action Pittsburgh.