Learn more about bumble bees and help contribute to their conservation with Bumble Bee Nest Quest and the University of Minnesota Extension.

Honey bees get a lot of attention and credit as hardworking pollinators, and we all understand the benefits of keeping a hive or two of honey bees near the garden. But amidst all the buzz about honey bees, we sometimes overlook the contributions of the humble bumble bee and other native bees to the success…

The DNR maintains a list of native plant suppliers and consultants for Minnesota. Companies must certify that they sell Minnesota native plants sourced from the state, do not sell invasive or noxious plants, and/or have experience as a native plant consultant or habitat restoration specialist. Some nurseries on these lists sell a mix of Minnesota native, non-native, or horticultural varieties of plants. Minnesota wildlife –including pollinator species– benefit most from Minnesota native plants because they developed together.