When most people think of bees, the image that comes to mind is likely the European honeybee (Apis mellifera). But while honeybees are crucial pollinators and support agriculture globally, they are not native to North America. In Pennsylvania alone, over 400 species of native bees quietly work behind the scenes, doing their part in maintaining the health of local ecosystems, supporting agriculture, and preserving biodiversity through providing the critical ecological service of pollination. Understanding the importance of native bees in our state is crucial, especially as they face mounting threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and competition from non-native species.

The Brandywine Conservancy is leading an ambitious new initiative to further protect and elevate the natural and cultural treasures of the Greater Brandywine Valley region. The project is a cooperative effort, engaging with residents, businesses, non-profit organizations, and local governments to designate the Greater Brandywine Valley in Pennsylvania and Delaware as a National Heritage Area.

Brandywine Conservancy’s Penguin Court Preserve in Westmoreland County is spearheading an initiative to certify 250 properties as Monarch Waystations this year!