Pollinators — such as bees, birds, butterflies, bats and insects — play a crucial role in the production of most fruits and vegetables. They also support healthy ecosystems that clean the air, stabilize soils and support wildlife.
Studies show that pollinator populations are in decline because of a loss of feeding and nesting habitats, pollution and the misuse of pesticides. In this 6-week course, learn how to protect our pollinators, food supply, and agricultural economy with the Master Pollinator Steward program. Session topics include an insect overview, plant-pollinator relationships, honey bees, native bees and other pollinators, and pollinators in nature and agriculture.
This course qualifies as Advanced Training for Extension Master Gardeners and Missouri Master Naturalists. This course has been certified for the following learning objectives for the Great Plains Master Beekeeping program: 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.5, 1.10, 1.11, 3.6, and 3.14.
Presentation Schedule (Mondays, 9:30-noon, via Zoom):
- May 5 - Insects
- May 12 - Plant-pollinator interactions
- May 19 - Native bees and other pollinators
- June 2 - Honey bees
- June 9 - Pollinators in nature and agriculture 1
- June 16 - Pollinators in nature and agriculture 2
Where: Lecture presentations are via Zoom with others in Missouri. Sessions will be recorded and the link will be shared for viewing later. Field sessions are local and in-person.
Questions: Contact Debi Kelly, kellyd@missouri.edu
Field Session Schedule: Three in-person field sessions will be held in Columbia - May 22, June 5 and June 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.
- May 22 - University of Missouri Botanic Garden
- June 5 - Jefferson Farm and Garden
- June 19 - A.L. Gustin Golf Course
Cost: $100
