Bees, pollination and your garden to be topic at event

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Bees play a critical role in pollinating crops, so much so that a recent study predicted the loss of pollinators could trigger widespread malnutrition in developing nations.

Two local authors, Sherian Wright and Jacqueline Freeman, will provide their perspective on bees during a public event Sat., Feb. 21.

Wright’s book, “Mason Bees for the Backyard Gardener,” delves into the lives of insects that do not produce honey but are excellent pollinators.

Wright, a Washougal resident, will explain how to identify mason bees, support and manage them. She will explain how they can increase the productivity of your fruit trees and improve the health of your backyard garden.



Freeman’s book, “The Song of Increase: Returning to Our Sacred Partnership with Honeybees,” reflects her passion for pollinating insects.

A Venersborg resident, Freeman’s close relationship with honeybees has led her to do everything from helping friends get started as beekeepers to working with rural beekeepers in the Dominican Republic. Her book can help beekeepers understand the behavior of bees and how to best support bee colonies.

Both authors will talk about their books and answer questions from 2-4 p.m. Feb. 21 at Vintage Books, 6613 E. Mill Plain Blvd. The event is sponsored by Green Neighbors, a Clark County Environmental Services program that provides county residents with information about sustainable living.

“With news stories about colony collapse and other issues affecting bees, this event will allow county residents to hear directly about our special relationship with bees,” said Don Benton, Environmental Services director.