Save the Bees In the past year, 45 percent of the nation's honeybee colonies have collapsed. Not only does this affect our food supply, but it also affects the Earth's unique biodiversity. To continue enjoying the many The decline in the bee population can be directly attributed to one major cause: the excessive use of pesticides and chemicals. Some of these chemicals are 5,000 to 10,000 times more toxic than DDT (a pesticide that was used in the United States for many years, before it was banned in 1972 because of its harmful effects on people and animals). Acute exposure to these toxins can kill bees directly; chronic exposure can leave them weakened and less able to forage for food or make it back to their hive and survive the winter. This is a pretty grim picture. Fortunately, there are many organic pesticides that don't have these harmful side effects. Organically grown food is not only better for the bees, but it is also better for your body. By supporting farmers who use organic farming techniques you are enjoying good quality food and also helping to save the planet. Although most of us are not planning to become beekeepers, there are many things you can do that will make a difference and help save the bees. These include the following: 1. Consider alternatives to a manicured lawn Bees don't need or even like a perfectly manicured lawn. Skip the weed killer and the lawn mower and let the dandelions and clover flourish. The bees will love you for it. If you still like a mowed lawn, perhaps you can set aside a portion of the lawn and let it go back to its roots to provide a place for bees to thrive. If you are seriously dedicated to making a home for bees, you might consider a great-smelling lawn alternative to replace the grass. Some choices are:
Do some research and try some natural, bee-friendly alternatives to chemical sprays and powders. Read the label on any products you purchase. Even herbicides and pesticides that label themselves as "organic" could still be hazardous. Build up your soil with common items like compost or cardboard boxes. Good soil that is rich in organic matter will attract beneficial insects like earthworms and allow plants that attract bees to thrive. 3. Plant a Bee Garden Plant some herbs and flowers that attract bees. Mint, lavender, and poppies are good starters. Be sure to have a source of water for the bees to re-hydrate. A shallow container with a few stones for the bees to land on will do the trick. 4. Support Farmers When possible, buy fruits and vegetables from local farmers. Many farmers also have beehives and sell local honey and honeycomb. Did you know that the actor Morgan Freeman raises bees? Buying from local sources not only saves the bees, it supports the farmers who work hard to provide us with high-quality food. 5. Provide Homes for Bees There are many ways to provide places for bees to thrive. For example, flowering trees provide thousands of blossoms which are a major source of nectar. Tree leaves and resin provide nesting material, and natural wood cavities make excellent shelters. Seventy percent of solitary bees live underground, while 30 percent live in holes inside of trees or hollow stems. Leaving a portion of your yard untouched can provide a safe haven for many of these bees. 6. Everyone Can Help Even if you don't have a lawn or a garden you can still create a small haven for local bees right in your window with just a few plants. Get a few terracotta pots or a window box and several bee-friendly plants of your choice, such as lavender, thyme, and rosemary. Be sure to check the light requirements for these plants before making a final decision. Place the potted plants in the window box and add a couple of shallow containers of water for the bees to drink. Sit back and enjoy the view, knowing that you are helping to save the bees. If you want more information about saving bees, check out these websites: 
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benefits of the beautiful, biodiversity of our planet, saving the bees is urgent.
2. Skip the Pesticides