Bloomington may soon earn a new national designation as a pollinator-friendly community.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
In a unanimous vote Wednesday, the Bloomington City Council passed a resolution for the city to become a Bee City USA affiliate \u2014 a certification that provides a framework for communities to increase pollinator conservation through habitat protection, reduced pesticide use and public education, according to the website<\/a>. \u00a0<\/p>\n The new name will join Bloomington’s other certifications like \u201cBird Town\u201d and \u201cGold-level Bicycle Friendly Community.\u201d \u00a0<\/p>\n Bee City USA<\/a>, an initiative of the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, recognizes communities that commit to protecting native pollinators like bees, butterflies and moths. Affiliated cities work with the organization to increase native plant habitats, provide nesting areas and limit harmful pesticide use in their communities. \u00a0<\/p>\n Some commitments of a Bee City USA affiliate include hosting at least one pollinator awareness event each year and installing a sign that is provided by the organization designating the community as an affiliate. Communities must also pay an application and annual renewal fee of $400, based on city population. \u00a0<\/p>\n During the meeting, Carrie Albright, chair of the Bloomington Environmental Commission, said the annual fee would be paid from the Environmental Commission\u2019s budget with assistance from the Parks and Recreation Department if needed. \u00a0<\/p>\n The proposed designation aligns with Bloomington\u2019s environmental sustainability and community health goals, according to a March 31 memo<\/a> that the BEC\u2019s Biodiversity Working Group sent to councilmember Isabel Piedmont-Smith. \u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cWe believe that pursuing this certification is a strategic and impactful step toward enhancing Bloomington\u2019s environmental reputation while creating tangible benefits for our residents, our wildlife, and our economy,\u201d said BEC member Shannon Gayk, on behalf of the working group. \u00a0<\/p>\n Bloomington Parks and Recreation Urban Greenspaces Manager Joanna Sparks said her department will form a committee composed of community members to help expand work related to the Bee City USA recognition. Sparks said she will also be responsible for forming an annual report on the program. \u00a0<\/p>\n Bloomington will join Avon and Columbus as Indiana cities officially recognized by Bee City USA, according to the Bee City USA Affiliates page<\/a>. Several Indiana colleges including Butler University, Hanover College and Indiana State University all hold the designation.\u00a0<\/p>\n