Blooming Conservation: A Bee-Friendly Garden Story in Greene County

In rural Greene County, an educational opportunity focused on nature's tiny but mighty pollinators is blossoming at the Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD). With the aid of a $2,500 Friends of NACD District Grant — just one of eight awarded nationwide in 2023 — the Greene County SWCD is cultivating a vibrant, bee-friendly garden that serves as both an inviting habitat and a hub for learning about conservation's bigger picture. 

The project was born from a desire to lead by example on an easy but impactful way anyone can start their own conservation journey - creating pollinator-friendly spaces. Pollinators like bees are super important to the entire conservation ethos, playing vital roles in plant reproduction, food production, and maintaining healthy ecosystems. 

"Our USDA Service Center was drab, lacking any greenery. It didn't reflect our commitment to conservation," said Lorena Wilson, Greene County SWCD’s District Administrative Coordinator who spearheaded the effort. "Today, the garden's native plants and flowers provide essential resources for bees and other pollinators." 

Raised beds bursting with colorful blooms now catch the eyes of passersby. At the garden's heart is a Flow-Hive beehive featuring an observation window that lets visitors view the hive's activity up close. Beyond its visual appeal, the garden will serve as an educational hub. Pollinator classes and gardening workshops are planned to inspire locals to create their own pollinator havens at home. "If you want people to learn, you've got to lead," Wilson emphasized. "It's one thing to hand a student seeds; it's a whole vibrant adventure for them to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of an active pollinator space." 

Wilson credits community partners like the Eutaw Area Chamber of Commerce, Tuskegee University Extension, Georgia/Alabama Land Trust, and local gardeners for supporting the garden by contributing volunteer labor, materials, and expertise. 

"Landowners, foresters, and residents visit our office daily for conservation assistance," Wilson said. "Our hope is this eye-catching garden will spark conversations about why pollinators are so vital to conservation efforts." 

To learn more about creating pollinator spaces and other natural resource conservation practices in your area, visit www.AlabamaSoilandWater.gov and click on "Find Your District."