Milwaukee County promotes community gardening and sustainable pesticide practices

The Milwaukee County Committee on Parks and Culture convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives, particularly focusing on community gardening and beekeeping programs. The meeting highlighted the positive impacts of community gardening as revealed through a ripple effect mapping effort, which visually represents the direct and indirect benefits of these programs.

During the discussions, stakeholders emphasized the importance of community involvement in gardening, showcasing how it fosters connections and enhances local ecosystems. The mapping process involves gathering input from community members to create a comprehensive overview of the program's outcomes, which helps in quantifying its success and advocating for continued support.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the beekeeping program, which focuses exclusively on honeybee husbandry. The program aims to educate participants on scientific beekeeping practices, steering clear of bumblebee maintenance, which is outside its scope. The committee members expressed a strong commitment to science-based practices, ensuring that the program adheres to established research and guidelines.

Concerns regarding pesticide use on community gardening lands were also raised. The committee clarified that growers are prohibited from using regulated chemicals requiring an applicator's license and are strongly discouraged from using any pesticides, including those available at hardware stores. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced by commercial growers, who may feel compelled to use pesticides despite the committee's stance against them.

The committee acknowledged the need for better outreach and education regarding pesticide use, particularly for non-English speaking growers. Efforts are underway to provide training and resources in multiple languages to ensure all community members can access necessary information and support.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed their commitment to fostering sustainable practices in Milwaukee County's parks and gardens, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and environmental stewardship. Further reports on related initiatives are expected in upcoming meetings.