Benefitting the Bees

June 20, 2024

NEWS RELEASE(External link)

We recently provided information which showcased the planting of the Pym Street garden(External link) meant to bring awareness about bees and their habitat. Bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem as pollinators, aiding in the reproduction of many plants and crops that we rely on for food. Bees and butterflies in the City rely on our gardens and green spaces for food and shelter. In return, these beneficial insects pollinate our plants, crops and fruit trees, giving us beautiful flowers, fruits, nuts, and honey.

Another step in protecting bees is the creation of naturalized pollinator meadows in some of our parks and open spaces. The areas are being mowed and maintained by staff but in a slightly different manner than previous years. Mowing has been reduced in a few select areas for these important reasons:

  • Improved habitat for beneficial species of plants and animals, including birds, bees and butterflies.
  • Cooler temperatures in the air benefiting visitors.
  • More moisture in our soils for longer, helping trees during periods of drought.
  • Less carbon emissions during maintenance.
  • More diverse and exciting park landscapes for people to enjoy.

Many municipalities are adopting these best practices following extensive research and studies and found the benefits to be significant. Concerns linking fire, insects, and garbage accumulation to unmowed grass have not been substantiated by research or information gathered from other municipalities. As the ecological benefits and rainfall declines, the long grass will turn brown, and the City will mow these areas. An example of this reduced mowing is at Nicolls Park where areas used by the public are being mowed and managed, leaving some areas to support environmental benefits. The tall grass also adds texture and colour to the park. Although the aesthetic may not be to everyone’s liking, benefits of selective mowing mean our green spaces can function at a higher level.


For more information:
Deb Tardiff; Manager of Communications
communications@parksville.ca; 250 954-3073