Title
Approval of a Resolution Declaring Olympia Bee City USA
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee
City Manager Recommendation:
Approve a resolution declaring Olympia Bee City USA.
Report
Issue:
Whether to Approve a resolution declaring Olympia Bee City USA.
Staff Contact:
Amy Stull, Park Stewardship Supervisor, Parks, Arts and Recreation, 360.753.8258
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar Item
Background and Analysis:
The Bee City USA initiative was started in 2012 by the Xerces Society in response to the concerning trend of pollinator disappearance. Currently, there are 94 Bee City USA affiliates.
Bee City USA affiliates are expected to raise awareness about pollinators, work to enhance pollinator habitat and celebrate achievements in conservation. Benefits for the participating organization include learning from others, increasing collaboration around pollinator conservation, improving local food production, less use of toxic chemicals and community involvement in removing invasive plants and planting native species.
Following designation as a Bee City USA affiliate, the City would be required to meet commitments related to the mission of Bee City USA. This includes public education, installing a Bee City USA sign, reviewing policies and plans for pollinator-friendly practices, implementing habitat enhancement programs and adopting an integrated pest management plan that reduces pesticide use.
The Bee City USA formalizes and recognizes the City’s efforts around pollinator conservation. The Habitat Work Group collaboration between Public Works Environmental Services and Park Stewardship will support the Bee City USA process and requirements. Many of the required actions are already being considered or are in process such as enhancing pollinator habitat with planting and invasive removal and reducing pesticide use.
Options:
1. Approve Bee City USA Resolution
2. Delay approval of Bee City USA Resolution
3. Don’t approve Bee City USA Resolution
Financial Impact:
Additional costs for Bee City USA membership and renewal are minimal.
Attachments:
Resolution