Tacoma Aims for Bee City Status to Protect Pollinators

Tacoma is considering becoming a Bee City USA affiliate, a program by the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation that encourages communities to conserve pollinators. This initiative comes as native pollinators, including honeybees, face critical population declines due to factors like habitat loss and pesticide use. A recent study indicated that 22% of North American native pollinators are at elevated risk of extinction.

Local beekeeper Rick Samyn, who manages approximately 40 to 50 hives, believes humans can learn from the bees' sustainable practices. Tacoma's Mayor Anders Ibsen hosted a meeting in June to discuss pollinator-supportive work and initial plans, involving various city departments and community partners.

To achieve Bee City status, Tacoma must pass a resolution committing to establish a committee, enhance pollinator habitats, reduce pesticide use, integrate pollinator-conscious policies, and host an annual awareness event. The city aims to pass this resolution by June 2027 and then apply for official designation.

Despite a significant budget deficit, city officials anticipate that some Bee City initiatives, such as rewilding public spaces, could lead to cost savings through reduced land maintenance. Samyn has pledged to match $10,000 from his beekeeping program to support the initiative, hoping it encourages greater respect for all creatures.