Lakewood Discovery Center installs observation beehive for interactive learning

In the heart of Salina, excitement buzzes around the Lakewood Discovery Center as plans unfold for a unique addition—a fully enclosed observation beehive. This innovative project, a collaboration with a local honey distributor, aims to educate visitors about the fascinating world of bees. Once completed, guests will be able to observe bees as they interact with the hive, collect pollen, and return to their new home inside the center. The anticipation is palpable, with staff eagerly awaiting the arrival of a local expert to finalize the setup and introduce a queen bee to the hive.

During a recent meeting of the Salina City Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, members expressed their enthusiasm for the beehive project, highlighting its potential to engage the community and foster a deeper understanding of local ecology. Although a specific timeline for the hive's completion remains uncertain, the commitment to keeping the public informed promises to maintain interest in this educational endeavor.

In addition to the beehive, the board discussed recent community events aimed at enhancing family engagement. The rebranded "Ties and Tiaras" event, previously known as Daddy-Daughter Date Night, saw a modest turnout of 51 attendees. Organizers hope that by refreshing the event's format, they can attract more families in the future. The board also noted the success of a self-defense class, which welcomed 17 participants, showcasing the community's interest in diverse programming.

As the meeting wrapped up, the focus on both environmental education and community engagement underscored the Parks and Recreation Department's commitment to enriching the lives of Salina residents. With exciting projects like the observation beehive on the horizon, the future looks bright for local parks and recreational activities.