This talk gets a bee+

Just because we don’t see stories about bee colony collapse as much as we did a decade ago, doesn’t mean we are out of the woods. Learn about the current status of bees, butterflies and other essential pollinators and how we can help sustain them this Saturday, June 13, when Newport Public Library and the Lincoln County Master Gardener Association present “Bring Back the Pollinators!”

Part of the library's quarterly Garden Literacy series, the program features Amy Vernon of the Xerces Society, who will explore the challenges facing pollinators and the simple steps gardeners and homeowners can take to help protect them.

The discussion will cover the important role pollinators play in healthy ecosystems, the threats they face and practical conservation strategies both in and beyond the garden. Designed as an informal and interactive presentation, the program also encourages participants to share their own gardening and pollinator experiences.

Vernon serves as a Xerces Society Ambassador focused on community outreach and education. A self-described insect enthusiast, she is also a farm worker, gardener, seed saver and plant advocate who promotes habitat and food sources that support pollinator health.

Named after the now-extinct Xerces blue butterfly, the first butterfly known to go extinct in North America because of human activities, the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation works internationally to protect insects and other invertebrates through scientific research, education, advocacy and habitat conservation.

Saturday's presentation begins at 11:30 am at Newport Public Library, located at 35 NW Nye Street. Registration is recommended. For more information or to register, go to newportlibrary.org or call 541-265-2153.