For over 45 years, the Xerces Society has worked to make a better world for bees, butterflies, tiger beetles, snails, mussels, and many other invertebrates, and ultimately, to make a better world for us. They have worked to protect the most vulnerable animals on the planet, provided information on how to protect these animals to land managers responsible for millions of acres of wildlands, and helped create and restore more than 700,000 acres of habitat on farms. They have also engaged with people in towns and cities, providing information on how to best care for invertebrates in these built landscapes. In the last year, however, they have greatly expanded their efforts in urban and suburban areas, offering even more resources and training to park managers, gardeners, and others.
Fitting perfectly with this increased presence in urban areas, Bee City USA is becoming part of the Xerces Society. Bee City USA brings a unique approach that encourages cities and college campuses across the United States to develop and implement a plan for helping pollinators and then receive recognition for their efforts through becoming a “Bee City” or “Bee Campus.” Under the direction of Phyllis Stiles, a tireless advocate for pollinators who founded Bee City USA in 2012, scores of cities and campuses across the US have become affiliates, each making a public commitment to support bees and improving their landscapes for these and other pollinators. Bee City USA has achieved great success. Just a few months ago Phyllis announced the 115th affiliate—70 cities and 45 campuses—and there are more joining each month. Phyllis will continue this effort as a Xerces employee.
