Honey Harvest event highlights pollinators’ role in responsible land use
More than 900 visitors spent the day learning about the importance of pollinators during the Honey & Cut-Flower Harvest Day at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum’s Farm at the Arb on Aug. 1.
The community event, sponsored by Great River Energy, gave guests a close-up look at the vital role bees, butterflies, beetles and other pollinators play in supporting Minnesota’s food systems, natural landscapes and everyday life.
Throughout the day, visitors took part in honey harvesting demonstrations, sampled honey, made bouquets in the flower fields, connected with beekeepers and stopped for pollinator-themed photo opportunities. Guests also explored the Pollinator Quest scavenger hunt, which guided them through pollinator interpretation areas and native garden plantings across the farm.
Great River Energy shared information about its Pollinator Strong initiative, which supports the restoration of pollinator habitat across Minnesota. To date, the initiative has restored 300 acres of land to provide food and habitat for pollinators that benefit agriculture, the environment and local communities.
The event also highlighted Great River Energy’s connection to the Arboretum, which is served by member-owner cooperative Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative. The partnership reflects Great River Energy’s continued commitment to public education, environmental stewardship and community engagement.
At the Great River Energy booth, visitors learned more about Pollinator Strong and received seed packets to plant at home — helping extend the day’s message beyond the Arboretum grounds.
“Events like this allow us to share Great River Energy’s Pollinator Strong story and learn how others are supporting pollinators in their own communities,” said Trevor Roy, media and external relations lead at Great River Energy.
" data-object-fit="cover">