This Is Nashville

Re-air: Essential pollinators, plus invasive plants

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Bees, butterflies, even birds and other insects provide the essential service of carrying pollen from flower to flower, helping to grow the food we eat.

But as the number of pollinators dwindle due to loss of habitat and overuse of pesticides, what do Tennesseans need to know about these fascinating creatures? How can we help the pollinators to thrive? What can we do, or not do, to encourage their populations? Plus, two experts tell us about invasive plants, which can have a negative effect on our health, safety and food supply.

The segments in today’s episode were produced by Magnolia Mckay, Tasha A.F. Lemley and Joan Kite.

Guests:

  • Mike Studer, Tennessee state apiarist
  • Gene Smalley, beekeeper
  • Ian Dawe, founding member of The Honey Collective, secretary of Nashville Area Beekeepers Association
  • Carol Ashworth, project manager, Pollinator Habitat Program, TDOT
  • Mike McClanahan, transportation manager, Local Programs and Community Investments, Highway Beautification at TDOT
  • Dr. Andrew Bell, executive director at the Nashville Tree Foundation
  • Dr. Matthew Blair, plant scientist, TSU Professor for the College of Agriculture
    ...more
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