A package of bills citing the importance of bees to New Jersey’s agriculture industry received Assembly Agriculture Committee approval by a 5-0 vote on March 6.
A3403, sponsored by Assemblyman Ron Dancer (R-Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex, Burlington) and Assemblyman Parker Space (R-Sussex), designates the common eastern bumble bee as the state native pollinator, according to a press release.
The second bill (A4606), sponsored by Dancer, provides a habitat for native bees and other pollinators in state parks and forests. The third measure (AR216), also sponsored by Dancer, encourages homeowners to plant native plants that support bees and other pollinators, according to the press release.
“The common eastern bumble bee is native to the Garden State and an important general pollinator for a wide range of crops our state is known for, including blueberries, cranberries, tomatoes and peppers,” Dancer said. “It is considered one of the most important species of pollinator bees in North America.”
“These bees are extremely adaptable,” said Space, whose family is well known for its agricultural commitment in Sussex County that spans eight generations. “They can live in the country, suburbs and urban cities, making them the perfect species to be named New Jersey’s native pollinator.”
Dancer said the key to a successful agriculture industry in New Jersey is a healthy bee industry. The state’s 20,000 bee colonies represent a $7 million honey bee industry that contributes to the production of nearly $200 million worth of fruits and vegetables annually.
“Providing nesting areas and habitats for bees helps us preserve our bee population which is vital to our agriculture industry,” said Dancer, “New Jersey’s state parks and forests are the perfect environment for nesting.
“Bees are crucial to our food chain, yet the public knows very little about their importance,” he continued. “Encouraginghomeowners to plant native plants will help keep bees healthy and thriving.”