Buzzing Facts on the Busy Bees

Many of our honey varieties are sourced from areas of "dwindling habitat." Real estate development, commercial timber operations, fires and infringement of man have begun to decrease the native habit of the honey bee that once grew rampant in untamed forests. Without conservation efforts, your favorite variety of honey may become a thing of the past.

Honey bees are one of our planet's most important animals. In fact, about one-third of the U.S. diet is derived from insect-pollinated plants and honey bees are accountable for about 80 percent of that process. Without honey bees, humans and wildlife wouldn't have much to eat or look at!

When you buy local honey you are supporting beekeepers and their efforts to maintain and increase the healthy hives of honey bees! No one is a bigger or better advocate for the honey bee than the beekeeper as his way of life depends on these remarkable insects.

Include nectar plants in your flower gardens so local bees have the food they need. Reduce the amount of chemicals and pesticide you use around your home. If you must use pesticides be sure to follow label instructions. Donate to organizations dedicated to protecting the honey bee. Buy pure honey from beekeepers. Read the label on the jar. Key words such as "honey flavored,""syrup," or "blended" indicate you are buying nothing more than a sweetened liquid.