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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – What’s the buzz in Greene County? A Species of Conservation Concern was spotted in Springfield over the summer.
An American bumblebee, a Species of Conservation Concern, was observed in July in a native plant garden participating in Yard Ethic. Staff with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) observed the species during an Urban Pollinator Survey conducted in several gardens in Springfield.
Once MDC staff made their observations, the American bumblebee was released and flew away.
The American bumblebee used to be common across most of the eastern United States, but its numbers have declined drastically, which is why it is now a Species of Conservation Concern. MDC tracks more than 1,250 sensitive species and natural community types in its annual Species and Communities of Conservation Concern Checklist.
Yard Ethic, a program developed by the City of Springfield Environmental Services, encourages yard care practices that benefit people, plants, and wildlife by aiming to reduce stormwater runoff while providing water quality and habitat improvements that support healthy neighborhoods. Yard Ethic certification is open to residential yards and businesses within the City of Springfield.
“The resident participates in the City’s Yard Ethic program, which recognizes residents for incorporating sustainable practices into their own yards. We're excited to see the program supporting stewardship efforts that contribute to discoveries like this one,” said Clarissa Hatley, City of Springfield Environmental Services Educator. “That's what Yard Ethic is all about, encouraging residents to create healthier habitats and improve water quality throughout our community.”
This observation of an American bumblebee highlights the important role small urban gardens can play in providing habitat for native species. This species’ numbers declined nearly 90 percent in North America between 2000 and 2020. The dramatic decline is strongly related to human activities.
Learn more about Yard Ethic at yardethic.com
Learn more about the American bumblebee with MDC’s Field Guide at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/american-bumblebee
Learn about Community Conservation funding opportunities at mdc.mo.gov/community-conservation/community-conservation-funding-opportunities
