During a recent government meeting, Connie Schmidt, chair of the River Prairie Group of Sierra Club and resident of Warrenville, Illinois, raised concerns about the impact of honey bees on native bee populations in unincorporated DuPage County. Schmidt emphasized that while honey bees are popular and beneficial for honey production, they pose a threat to native bees, which are experiencing significant declines.

Schmidt explained that honey bees, as an introduced species and managed livestock, forage extensively, creating a large foraging area that can affect local ecosystems. She cited research from the Xerces Society, highlighting that a single honey bee hive can collect enough pollen over three months to support the development of 100,000 native bees. However, the spread of diseases and parasites by honey bees is contributing to the decline of native species, including the endangered rusty patched bumblebee.

Schmidt noted that native bees, such as bumblebees, are crucial for pollinating crops that honey bees cannot, and she pointed out that major agricultural crops in Illinois, like soybeans and corn, do not rely on bees for pollination. She also mentioned that bee hives are generally not permitted on forest preserve properties, with the exception of one educational site.

In conclusion, Schmidt urged the government to maintain the current zoning regulations regarding honey bees, advocating for the preservation of native habitats to support the declining native bee populations. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue about balancing agricultural practices with environmental conservation efforts in the region.