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Abuzz about Bees
Wednesday, August 15, 2012 • Mark Peters
POLLINATION biologist Linda Newstrom-Lloyd is about to start researching pollen loads at Eastwoodhill Arboretum in support of the Gisborne “Trees for Bees” project.

The Landcare Research scientist is here next week, aiming to identify trees, shrubs and flowers that are attractive to bees and produce high-protein pollen.

The project has a goal of increasing pollen uptake by 20 percent as well as finding multi-purpose plants for farms.

It also aims to prove the value of bees and pollen on four demonstration farms with Gisborne farmer Peter Hair and beekeeper Paul Badger working in partnership on a “Trees for Bees” project at Lake Repongaere.

The “trees for bees” project encourages people to plant bee-friendly trees and flowers. Increased pollen production, higher diversity in pollination and improved apiary sites are also a major focus for the campaign.

As well as an educational programme planned for Bee Week, the Gisborne beekeepers association has packets of wild flower seeds for sale.

A particular focus of Mrs Newstrom-Lloyd’s research is when bees most need pollen.

She says the problem in winter is that there are not many flowers around to provide bees with enough protein to get through the cold season.

Increased pollen production, higher diversity in pollination and improved apiary sites are also a major focus for the campaign.

Mrs Newstrom-Lloyd also spoke to Gisborne beekeepers and farmers on Sunday about the role of pollinators in the New Zealand economy, saying there was a pollination crisis.

“The issues are getting worse year by year,” she said.

“If pollination goes, our food production goes with it. At least 130 crops are dependent on bee pollination. Without production we would have to import food.”
MEETING BEES’ NEEDS: In a weekend presentation about a “Trees for Bees” project in Gisborne, pollination biologist Linda Newstrom-Lloyd said negative environmental impacts on New Zealand’s bees threatens crop pollination and the economy as a result. Mrs Newstrom-Lloyd will return to Gisborne next week to begin pollen research at Eastwoodhill Arboretum. Picture by Mark Peters
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