BEES: Today is National Honey Bee Day. In the world today, there are 19,000 different species of bees, and they are responsible for pollinating 30% of the world’s food crops and 90% of our wild plants.

Bees are essential to life as we know it.

The goal of today’s designation is to bring together the bee enthusiasts and beekeepers of the world and to celebrate those essential little fuzzy fliers.

Over the last 15 years, bee populations have been on the decline at an alarming rate. Factors causing the decline include climate change, loss of habitat and the use of pesticides that are not bee-friendly.

“Sadly, more than one third of all bee species are facing declines in population and almost ten percent are facing complete extinction,” said Flow Hive co-inventor Cedar Anderson. “But the exciting thing is that there are so many tiny actions all of us can do to play a part in protecting bees.”

Second and third generation father and son beekeepers, Stuart and Cedar Anderson, invented a beehive that allows for easier honey extraction, straight from the hive and into a jar, making it gentler on the bees and much easier for the beekeeper.

Here are 3 easy things we can all do to help bees thrive.

First and foremost, skip the pesticides. There are many natural alternatives, including garlic, onion or salt spray and soap and orange citrus oil, all will protect the produce without harming bees. Remember to avoid using even these sprays during foraging hours, as they can be harmful to pollinators as well.

Next, head outdoors and plant some flowers that bloom at various times of the year. This gives pollinators food during the different seasons.

Third, it’s ok to let the dandelions bloom in the veggie garden. The bees get a chance to forage and you have an excuse for taking a break from weed duty.

Teach the children well. Make sure kids can get involved by teaching them about bees, their important role in the world as pollinators and the best ways to keep the bees alive and our food crops in good health.

Finally, become active and cultivate your own colony of bees. It is a fascinating world and a unique experience to learn about bees and how they interact with the environment around them.