A boost for bees
Master Gardeners share U research
Concern about pollinators is growing, and the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener program is increasing its efforts to help bees and other pollinators thrive. In 2017, Master Gardener volunteers across the state will help pollinators by encouraging Minnesotans to choose and tend plants in their home landscapes and communities that provide healthy food (nectar and pollen) for pollinators.
The Master Gardener program shares the goal of helping pollinators with the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, and the two have combined forces. Thanks to their partnership, Master Gardeners have access to even more research-based continuing education opportunities on a variety of topics affecting the lives of Minnesotans.
Each year, Master Gardener volunteers in Minnesota log thousands of volunteer hours that benefit Minnesotans. In 2016, more than 200,000 Minnesotans were reached by the Master Gardener program. Though the 2017 pollinator theme provides a focus, Master Gardeners work in a variety of critical areas, including plant biodiversity, climate change and clean water.
Envision this: a physical headquarters for Master Gardeners with teaching gardens and technology to reach all of Minnesota through remote learning.
You can help build a Master Gardener home at the Arboretum. Contact Jane Johnson at 612-626-3717 or johns350@umn.edu. Or donate to the Master Gardener volunteer program.