A healthy bee population and the pollination service they provide are critical for our food security. Scientists are concerned as they see bee populations decline. Holly Hills has been chosen as one of two areas for a study being conducted on the impacts of urban landscape on the presence and health of bees.

This study, conducted by the Department of Sustainability at Saint Louis University and funded by the Missouri Department of Conservation, is looking to determine what kinds of plant choices are most conducive to bee presence and health. The ultimate goal of the research is to be able to decide what best practices are and promote these practices to the general public.

Researchers at SLU are looking for15 sites within each of the chosen neighborhoods. If you or anyone you know would like your yard or garden to be part of this research please contact Hannah Ehrlich at
garden@hollyhills.info.