Asheville, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The Asheville Botanical Garden and Bee City Asheville are starting a monthly Certified Pollinator Advocate series for residents interested in pollinator conservation. Occurring every second Tuesday of the month, the program covers topics like sustainable gardening and habitat creation. Participants can earn certification by completing classes and engaging in outreach projects. The initiative aims to promote the local ecosystem, supporting various pollinators essential for environmental health and biodiversity.
Asheville – The Asheville Botanical Garden and Bee City Asheville are kicking off their monthly Certified Pollinator Advocate series, designed for residents interested in promoting pollinator conservation. The program runs every second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m., focusing on important topics related to the protection and sustainability of pollinators such as bees, hummingbirds, moths, and butterflies.
Participants in the series will delve into various subjects, including habitat creation and sustainable gardening practices. To earn certification, individuals must complete all 12 classes and engage in an outreach event and a habitat project in collaboration with Bee City Asheville.
Upcoming sessions of the series will include:
- September: “Pollinator-Friendly Pest Management,” led by Brannen Bashem from Spriggly’s Beescaping, will cover identifying true pests and management strategies.
- October: “Collect Native Seeds to Plant Next Year,” presented by Sarah Coury, garden manager at the Botanical Garden and co-owner of Saturnia Farm.
- November: “Pamper Your Pollinators This Winter,” by Phyllis Stiles and Keith Aitken, will discuss the importance of trees and leaves for pollinator sustenance.
- December: “Bee My Little Baby: Intro to Bee Nesting,” led once again by Brannen Bashem, focusing on supporting local bee populations.
The Certified Pollinator Advocate series was initiated in 2024, continued in 2025, and is set to extend into 2026. This initiative is part of Asheville’s recognition as the original Bee City, certified in 2012 as a sanctuary for a diverse range of local pollinators.
Asheville’s Bee City USA designation was established by Phyllis Stiles to promote pollinator gardens, aiming to counter the decline of pollinator species which has been observed over the last three decades. Pollinator gardens play a crucial role by providing necessary food and habitat.
To support this initiative, Asheville GreenWorks and Bee City USA have released an updated recommendation list of 284 native plants, including wildflowers, shrubs, trees, vines, grasses, and sedges. This comprehensive guide not only suggests plants based on their blooming schedules but also helps users understand each plant’s significance to pollinators. For example, the wild strawberry can support up to 69 species of butterflies and moths.
Furthermore, Asheville GreenWorks also offers a Pollinator Garden Certification program, aimed at individuals who wish to enhance or establish their pollinator gardens in Western North Carolina.
In conclusion, the Certified Pollinator Advocate series at the Asheville Botanical Garden presents an excellent opportunity for environmentally conscious residents to engage in meaningful conservation efforts that benefit local pollinators and enhance the community’s ecological health.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the Certified Pollinator Advocate series?
The series aims to educate residents on pollinator conservation, sustainable gardening practices, and habitat creation.
When does the series meet?
It meets every second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m.
How can I become a certified pollinator advocate?
To become certified, individuals must complete all 12 classes and participate in an outreach event and habitat project with Bee City Asheville.
What kind of topics will be covered in the sessions?
Topics include pest management, collecting native seeds, winter care for pollinators, and supporting bee populations.
How long will the series continue?
The series began in 2024, continued in 2025, and is set to extend into 2026.
What is the significance of Asheville being a Bee City?
Asheville’s designation as Bee City USA signifies its commitment to promoting pollinator gardens and mitigating the decline of pollinator species.
Key Features of the Certified Pollinator Advocate Series
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Asheville Botanical Garden |
| Frequency | Every second Tuesday of the month |
| Certification Requirements | Complete 12 classes, participate in outreach, and a habitat project |
| Upcoming Topics | Pest management, native seeds, winter care, bee nesting |
| Duration of Series | Continues through 2026 |
| Bee City Recognition | Asheville is the original Bee City, promoting local pollinators |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- 828 News: Buzzing into Action – Asheville’s Pollinator Classes Return
- 828 News: Crafty Kids – Children’s Entrepreneur Markets in Asheville Area
- 828 News: Firefighters Weather Storm Loss While Renovating Station
- Wikipedia: Pollinator
- Google Search: Pollinator Gardens
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