As someone who really likes honey (especially in my beer – no shame), this is fairly alarming news. Apparently, bees have been disappearing in Minnesota since 2006; the United States in general has lost over a third of its bee colonies. That’s not good. Losing bees could have a huge negative effect on our farming industry, since so many plants (and animal food) depend on bees for pollination. In fact, Minnesota is ranked #6 in the country for honey production. So yeah, bees and honey are pretty important to the North Star State. And again – honey beer.

Bees have been disappearing for a lot of reasons, but luckily there are a few ways you can help if you’re so inclined.

  1. Become a beekeeper

This would be a great thing to put on my dating profile. “Hi, my name is Jordan, I’m a Scorpio, and I keep bees.” It’s still much cooler than owning 7 cats.

  1. Plant Bee Stuff In Your Garden

Certain plants and flowers are a natural habitat for bees, and it gives them something to do. Basically, you can make your backyard the DMC for bees. CLASSY. A quick Google search (you’re welcome) shows 25 bee-friendly plants and flowers.

  1. Don’t get rid of the dandelions and clovers in your yard

This might be the best way you can help because it involves doing absolutely nothing. Seriously, I’m telling you that you don’t need to mow your lawn today. Or do anything to your yard. You can save potentially hundreds of lives and be lazy. Win-win!

  1. Buy Local Raw Honey

If you decided to become a beekeeper, you’re already set. Otherwise head over to a farmer’s market in Rochester and go wild. You can also brag to your friends that you own elite honey. Make sure to get super pretentious about it. That’s half the fun.

  1. If You See A Bee, Don’t “Be” Freaked Out

Ugh, I’m the worst. No, but really – bees won’t sting you unless provoked, so if you see one, try not to murder it. Be cool, man. Be cool.

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You can check out this article from the Med City Beat for more tips, but hopefully we can get this Minnesota bee crisis under control. Not being able to get my buzz from honey beer would really sting. Okay, I’m done.

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