Bees and other pollinators are important for Łosicki district (Mazowieckie Voivodesip) not only because of the bee farms, but also due to the presence of many orchards and farm lands that require and benefit from their presence. Falling numbers of bees and pollinators is a serious ecological problem. Through our conversations with the local beekeepers we have learned that decreasing bee populations and a decreasing amount of honey produced are a result of using harmful pesticides by farmers and orchard keepers. Practices of grass cutting, destroying the balk, or cutting down of deciduous trees are negatively impacting the bee populations. Our diagnosis suggests that these problems stem from a lack of ecological awareness among farmers and orchard keepers and lack of knowledge of alternative pesticide uses, as well as a lack of a dialogue between the beekeepers, farmers and orchard keepers, foresters, and activists.

We will address these problems by creating a network of organizations and institutions such as NGOs, local governments, forest service, educational extensions, and Beekeeper’s Association in Łosice. Together, we will design an engaging campaign about the pollinators addressed to the citizens of our district. We will organize open air events with workshops and educational and arts meetings for the participants. We will also facilitate a series of culinary workshops using bee-derived products. Together with the members of different municipalities we will plant bushes favored by the bees and two alleys of linden trees. Children and youth will play a part in organizing arts events in ten different towns. We will also publish a cookbook with educational elements on the protection of insects and plants. These initiatives will help spread the knowledge on pollinators and their role in ecosystems, as well as work together on finding local solutions that will help protect them.